• Education
  • Parenting

Getting college & career ready: Tips for freshmen (9th grade)

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Teens playing soccer

This parent and family checklist will help your freshman achieve big goals!

FOCUS ON ACADEMICS

  • Set goals for the academic year.
  • Emphasis the importance of arriving at school on time every day.
  • Be vocal about your expectations.
  • Help your student stay organized and develop a homework routine.
  • Discuss preparing for the PSAT.
  • Talk to the school counselor to ensure your child is on track to graduate.

ENHANCE SOCIAL SKILLS

  • Get involved in your student’s school and encourage participation in activities, clubs, community services or sports.
  • Get to know your student’s friends and their families.
  • Help your student understand appropriate behavior on social media.
  • Share your expectations and explain the possible consequences of risky behaviors like drinking, drugs, vaping, etc.

PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

  • Talk about future goals and help create a plan.
  • Start exploring careers and colleges using free online tools such as Big Future and FloridaShines.
  • Learn ways to pay for college, such as scholarships and Federal Student Aid.
  • Create a post-secondary education savings account and encourage your student to contribute to it from part-time or summer jobs.
  • Research free study supports for the PSAT and SAT, such as Khan Academy.

SOURCE:
Achieve Palm Beach County

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