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:

  1. Orientation: Introduce students to the role of the guidance counselor and the support services available to them.

  2. Academic Planning: Help students select appropriate courses for 8th grade, considering their interests, abilities, and future goals.

  3. Study Skills: Teach study techniques, time management, and organizational skills to improve academic performance.

  4. Personal Development: Foster character development, promote self-esteem, and encourage positive relationships with peers and teachers.

8th Grade:

  1. High School Preparation: Assist students in selecting high school courses, considering graduation requirements, college prerequisites, and personal interests.

  2. Academic Support: Provide resources and strategies to enhance academic performance, including tutoring options and study groups.

  3. Goal Setting: Help students set academic and personal goals for high school, emphasizing the importance of persistence and self-motivation.

  4. College Awareness: Introduce students to the concept of college, discuss the benefits of higher education, and encourage them to explore college options.

  5. Extracurricular Involvement: Encourage students to participate in clubs, sports, or other activities that align with their interests and talents.

  6. Transition Planning: Prepare students for the transition to high school, addressing any concerns or anxieties they may have.

  7. Administer PSAT 8/9 to help students gain exposure to college entrance exams

9th Grade:

  1. High School Transition: Support students in adjusting to the academic and social aspects of high school life, addressing any challenges they may face.

  2. Course Selection: Assist students in selecting challenging yet appropriate courses that align with their career interests and college goals.

  3. GPA Monitoring: Monitor students' academic progress and discuss strategies to improve their grade point average (GPA).

  4. College Readiness: Begin discussing college admissions requirements, standardized testing, and extracurricular involvement for college applications.

  5. Administer PSAT 8/9 to help students gain exposure to college entrance exams

  6. Personal Development: Provide guidance on developing strong character, making ethical choices, and fostering positive relationships with peers and mentors.

10th Grade:

  1. Academic Planning: Help students refine their course selection, ensuring they meet graduation requirements and fulfill college prerequisites.

  2. College Exploration: Guide students through the process of researching colleges, visiting campuses, and understanding admission criteria.

  3. Standardized Testing: Educate students about the SAT/ACT exams, provide test-taking strategies, and assist with registration and preparation.

  4. Leadership Development: Encourage students to take on leadership roles in clubs, organizations, or community service activities.

  5. 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:

  1. College Applications: Provide guidance on the college application process, including essay writing, recommendation letters, and application deadlines.

  2. College Fairs and Visits: Arrange college fairs and visits to expose students to various college options and help them make informed decisions.

  3. Financial Aid: Educate students and parents about financial aid options, scholarships, grants, and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

  4. Career Counseling: Offer individualized career counseling sessions to help students explore career paths and make informed decisions about their future.

  5. Career Assessment: Administer career assessments to help students identify their strengths, interests, and potential career paths. (ASVAB)

  6. 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:

  1. College Decision Making: Assist students in evaluating college acceptances, financial aid packages, and making the final decision about their post-secondary education.

  2. Transition Planning: Provide guidance on the transition from high school to college or the workforce, including housing, registration, and other logistical considerations.