Guidance
The LCS Guidance Department empowers students academically by offering support, enrichment, and resources to prepare them for college and/or careers. We strive to help students find clear purpose and direction as they develop into leaders and disciples in Christ.
The following is a summary of our Guidance Program for students in 7th-12th grade:
7th Grade
- Orientation: Introduce students to the role of the guidance counselor and the support services available to them.
- Academic Planning: Help students select appropriate courses for 8th grade, considering their interests, abilities, and future goals.
- Study Skills: Teach study techniques, time management, and organizational skills to improve academic performance.
- Personal Development: Foster character development, promote self-esteem, and encourage positive relationships with peers and teachers.
8th Grade
- High School Preparation: Assist students in selecting high school courses, considering graduation requirements, college prerequisites, and personal interests.
- Academic Support: Provide resources and strategies to enhance academic performance, including tutoring options and study groups.
- Goal Setting: Help students set academic and personal goals for high school, emphasizing the importance of persistence and self-motivation.
- College Awareness: Introduce students to the concept of college, discuss the benefits of higher education, and encourage them to explore college options.
- Extracurricular Involvement: Encourage students to participate in clubs, sports, or other activities that align with their interests and talents.
- Transition Planning: Prepare students for the transition to high school, addressing any concerns or anxieties they may have.
- Administer PSAT 8/9 to help students gain exposure to college entrance exams
9th Grade
- High School Transition: Support students in adjusting to the academic and social aspects of high school life, addressing any challenges they may face.
- Course Selection: Assist students in selecting challenging yet appropriate courses that align with their career interests and college goals.
- GPA Monitoring: Monitor students' academic progress and discuss strategies to improve their grade point average (GPA).
- College Readiness: Begin discussing college admissions requirements, standardized testing, and extracurricular involvement for college applications.
- Administer PSAT 8/9 to help students gain exposure to college entrance exams
- Personal Development: Provide guidance on developing strong character, making ethical choices, and fostering positive relationships with peers and mentors.
10th Grade
- Academic Planning: Help students refine their course selection, ensuring they meet graduation requirements and fulfill college prerequisites.
- College Exploration: Guide students through the process of researching colleges, visiting campuses, and understanding admission criteria.
- Standardized Testing: Educate students about the SAT/ACT exams, provide test-taking strategies, and assist with registration and preparation.
- Leadership Development: Encourage students to take on leadership roles in clubs, organizations, or community service activities.
- Administer PSAT/NMSQT to identify students who may qualify to receive a scholarship in their junior year from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
11th Grade
- College Applications: Provide guidance on the college application process, including essay writing, recommendation letters, and application deadlines.
- College Fairs and Visits: Arrange college fairs and visits to expose students to various college options and help them make informed decisions.
- Financial Aid: Educate students and parents about financial aid options, scholarships, grants, and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Career Counseling: Offer individualized career counseling sessions to help students explore career paths and make informed decisions about their future.
- Career Assessment: Administer career assessments to help students identify their strengths, interests, and potential career paths. (ASVAB)
- Administer PSAT/NMSQT to identify students who may qualify to receive a scholarship in their junior year from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
12th Grade
- College Decision Making: Assist students in evaluating college acceptances, financial aid packages, and making the final decision about their post-secondary education.
- Transition Planning: Provide guidance on the transition from high school to college or the workforce, including housing, registration, and other logistical considerations.