Senior Checklist
Class of 2013

Compiled by Spearfish High School Counselors
           

• For updated information or as a resource, check out our website at spearfish.k12.sd.us/shs/index.htlm/.  Click on menu, department, and guidance.
• Review your class schedule to be certain you are taking courses relevant to post high plans.  Be aware of college preparatory requirements.
• Review your transcript to make sure you have met all of Spearfish High School graduation requirements.  Requirements can be found on the SHS web site under guidance.
• Review your transcript to make sure you are on track to become a Regent Scholar/CTE Scholar.
• Review and discuss the options available to you after graduation:  work force, military, technical or trade school, junior college, or university.  The SDMyLife program is available through the guidance office.
• It’s not too late to apply for a ROTC scholarship, National Guard or to a service academy (you will need to initiate pre-candidate file and submit letters to congressmen), see a counselor ASAP if interested!
• Young men who turn 18 must register with the Selective Service; failure to do so may result in future problems with financial aid applications.  www.sss.gov
• Attend post high planning day October 25, 2012 and visit with several post secondary representatives.
• Scholarships are an ongoing process throughout the entire school year. Senior should check the scholarship box in the guidance office and our web page.  For additional scholarships check out www.fastweb.com
• Seniors may take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)
• Seniors are encouraged to take or retake the ACT in October.  Students with documented disabilities may qualify for special accommodations.  We have ACT prep in the Guidance office.  Information is available at www.ACT.org.
• Some seniors may need to take the SAT, especially if you intend to apply to a private or coastal university.

• Representatives from various colleges and military branches visit SHS throughout the year.  Arrange to get a guidance pass to visit with a representative.  The visitation schedule is published in the daily announcements.

• Send off school application forms by December!
• Some senior athletes may need to apply to the NCAA or NAIA, which can be found on our Guidance website.  Be aware of college athletic eligibility  requirements.  www.clearinghouse.net

• Begin to gather tax information, as financial aid forms should be completed as soon after January 1st as possible!  www.fafsa.ed.gov.
• Apply for a PIN at www.pin.ed.gov.  This Personal Identification Number is needed when applying for Federal Student Aid.  Both student and parent will need a PIN.
• Attend Financial Aid Information session in January 10 at 7:00 pm at SHS.
• Register/take AP Exams, if appropriate.
• Take advantage of Dual Enrollment at BHSU and articulation opportunities with Western Dakota Technology.
• Please contact Robi Apland about ordering announcements, cap and gown, and putting senior pictures in the paper.

• Utilize Parent Portal.  In the fall, you can contact Bev Draine at 717-1208.

• Attend senior night in May when seniors will be recognized for scholarship, leadership, and talent!

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Counseling Office at 717-1214!