Welcome to High School! The next four years of your life will go by so quickly. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of getting off to a strong start academically. Now is the time to form effective study habits, time management and organization skills. Also, get involved! There are so many activities in which you can participate at St. Francis DeSales High School. Take advantage of the opportunities available to you. Remember that your counselor is here to assist you throughout your 4 years of high school. We encourage you to stop by and introduce yourself!

Checklist for Making the Most of High School—from www.actstudent.org

· Take classes recommended for college preparation. See your counselor if you are not sure.

· Use your test results. Examine your scores and get assistance for your weaker academic areas. You will take the EXPLORE as a freshman, PLAN as a sophomore and the PSAT as a junior.

· Establish goals for each school year. Talk to your counselor about what you should be doing in light of your college and career plans.

· Explore careers through research and experiences. Click here for ideas.

· Surf the internet for information on education and college planning. Click here for ideas.

It’s not too early to start preparing for college

Check out http://knowhow2go.org/freshmen.php and “Considering College” to find out more.

EXPLORE

All Freshmen will take the EXPLORE in the fall. EXPLORE is the first part of a comprehensive testing system that includes the PLAN and the ACT. Students will take the PLAN as sophomores and typically take the ACT for the first time in the spring of the Junior year. The EXPLORE, PLAN, and ACT all test students in the areas of English, math, reading and science; however, the material tested gets progressively difficult. For more information on the EXPLORE, visit www.actstudent.org/explore