ACSS K-12 Counseling Program
 

Mission Statement

The Aberdeen Catholic Schools Guidance and Counseling Program is dedicated to instilling Catholic values and promoting excellence by nurturing mind, body, and soul.  This program is designed to address the needs of all students by helping them to acquire competencies in personal, academic, and career development domains.  The K-12 developmental program is concerned with all students while recognizing the fact that individuals have needs that will continue to require special attention.  As a result, the comprehensive guidance and counseling program is for all students, with the goal of being proactive as well as responsive.

 Philosophy

In an effort to fulfill its mission statement, the Aberdeen Catholic School System provides a guidance and counseling curriculum for all students K-12.  In this curriculum, the guidance program emphasizes the need to develop self-esteem, self-direction, and respect for self and peers, along with social and academic skills.  In order to reach its goal, which is to provide an atmosphere for optimal growth of all students so that each can fulfill their potential, the curriculum also encompasses individual and group counseling and classroom guidance.

The counseling department will provide crisis intervention, consultation, responsive services, referral services, and work collaboratively with parents, teachers, and community resources.  Individual or group counseling shall be provided to all students requesting assistance or by referrals made by other school personnel. Each of these services is provided in order to ensure the safety and maximum personal growth of each student. 

Along with instilling Catholic values and promoting academic excellence by nurturing mind, body, and soul, the counseling department will foster a school atmosphere in which students are empowered to begin to assume responsibility and to take charge of their lives in the areas of personal and social development, academic development, and career development. 

Role of the Counselor

The school counselor is a certified professional educator who assists students, teachers, parents, and administrators.  Three generally recognized helping processes used by the counselor are counseling, consultation, and coordination:  1) Counseling is a complex helping process in which the counselor establishes a trusting and confidential working relationship.  The focus is on problem-solving, decision-making, and discovering personal meaning related to learning and development; 2) Consultation is a cooperative process in which the counselor-consultant assists others to think through problems and to develop skills that make them more effective in working with students; and

3) Coordination is a leadership process in which the counselor helps organize and manage a school’s counseling program and related services.

Guiding Principles

The Aberdeen Catholic Schools Guidance and Counseling Program is carried out in the context of Catholic moral teaching, and:

• Provides a vital link to the total instructional program of a school
• Provides a curriculum for student instruction based primarily upon student needs
• Provides developmental, preventive, and remedial services
• Includes professional development necessary to maintain a quality program
• Contains measurable student competencies which address the skills necessary for each student to function effectively in each life role
• Aims at educational excellence through individual excellence
• Is an integral part of the student’s total educational experience
• Depends on the support and collaboration of administrators, teachers, other school personnel, parents, students, and the community
• Is essential to a student’s personal growth and development and therefore essential to academic success
• Is coordinated and implemented by professionally endorsed school counselors

Program Benefits

Benefits for Students

1. Prepares students for the challenges of the future through personal/social, educational/academic, and career development.
2. Relates the educational program to future success.
3. Facilitates career exploration and development.
4. Broadens knowledge of our changing world.
5. Assures equitable access for educational opportunities.
6. Provides advocacy for students.

Benefits for Parents

1. Prepares children for the challenges of the future.
2. Provides support for parents in advocating for their child’s academic, career, and personal development.
3. Develops a system for their child’s long-range planning and learning.
4. Increases opportunities for parent/school interaction.
5. Enables parents to access school and community resources.

Benefits for Teachers and Administrators

1. Provides for a team effort to address student needs and educational goals.
2. Provides consultation to assist teachers in their guidance role.
3. Integrates school counseling with the academic mission of the school.
4. Assists administration to use school counselors effectively to enhance learning and development for all students.
5. Provides a program structure with specific content.

 Benefits for the Community

1. Increases opportunities for business and industry to participate actively in the total school program.
2. Provides increased opportunity for collaboration among counselors and community.
3. Provides a potential workforce with decision-making skills, pre-employment skills, and increased worker maturity.
4. Creates community awareness and visibility of the school counseling program.
5. Educates the community to the needs of the school and the school to the needs of the community.
6. Enhances economic development through quality preparation of students for the world of work.
7. Aids in the development and maintenance of a spiritually sound young generation.

Program Content

Guidance Curriculum

Guidance curriculum may be delivered via classroom activities, small group activities, or individual activities.  Each activity and delivery method is specifically catered to its audience.  The purpose of guidance curriculum is to provide students with knowledge of growth and development, assist them in acquiring and using life skills, and assist them in making future educational and career plans.  The guidance and counseling curriculum is not limited to being taught in one or two subjects, but is included in as many subjects as possible.  School counselors teach, team teach, or support teachers in delivering program curriculum through activities or units.  The support of the entire school staff is necessary for its successful implementation.  Also critical is that parents be invited to review, provide input, and reinforce what is learned in school at home.  See Appendix A for grades K-6 Guidance Curriculum and Appendix B for grades 7-12 Guidance Curriculum.

Individual Planning

The focus of individual planning activities is on assisting students in developing life and career plans including their skills, aptitudes, and abilities.  The foundation of life and career plans is established during the elementary school years.  Self-concept development, the acquisition of learning skills, interpersonal relationship skills development, decision-making, skill-building, and awareness and beginning exploration of educational and career possibilities are examples of topics that are learned.  These same topics are reinforced during junior high and high school.  New information and experiences enable students to develop and manage their plans. 

Responsive Services

Responsive services consist of activities to meet the immediate needs and concerns of students.  These needs may include counseling, consultation, referral, or information.  These services are most often student initiated.  The purpose of the responsive services component is to intervene on behalf of those students whose immediate personal concerns or problems put their continued personal, career, or academic development at risk.  Although counselors respond to any concerns presented by students, some topics have been identified as having high priority or relevance within the school setting.  Topics of priority may include:

*Severe stress

*Substance abuse

* Challenges at home

*Peer pressure

*Attendance

*Study skills

* Peer relationships

*Academic success

*School attitudes & behavior

*Being new to school

*Issues related to traumatic events

*Career indecision

*College choice

*Death and grief

Systems Support

Systems support consists of activities that establish, maintain and enhance the total school counseling program.  Systems Support may include:

• Professional Development for Counselors
• School Counseling Program Development
• School Improvement Involvement
• Data gathering, documentation, analysis and action planning
• Parent Involvement
• Community Outreach

Balance of Time

In order to carry out a comprehensive guidance and counseling program the following allocation of time is recommended by the ASCA National Model:

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

MIDDLE SCHOOL/JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL

HIGH SCHOOL

Section 504

Section 504 is the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 that guarantees specific rights in federally funded programs and activities to people who qualify as disabled.  Section 504 states, “No otherwise qualified disabled individual in the United States…shall solely by reason of a disability be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.” 

If an educational team suspects a need for student accommodation, a referral should be made, evaluations conducted, and possible eligibility determined by a team knowledgeable about the student.  A Section 504 Accommodation Plan may be put into place in order to ensure that each student is receiving the best possible educational experience.  The Aberdeen Catholic Schools do offer such accommodations for students and the counselors serve as 504/ADA Coordinators.

Adapted from information provided by SD Department of Education and Cultural Affairs, Division of Workforce and Career Preparation, 2002

APPENDIX A

Roncalli Elementary and Primary Counseling Program

K

Introduction to Guidance and Counseling.

¨                Students will learn who the counselor is.

¨                Students will have a better understanding of what the counselor does.

Icebreakers

¨                Students will demonstrate the ability to speak in front of others and begin to demonstrate the ability remember names of other students around them.

What is school about?

¨                Students will learn necessary organizational skills in order to be prepared better for class.

Getting ready for class

¨                Students will master ability to know where they put things as well as what to bring to the classroom as well as what not to bring. 

Following directions

¨                Students will demonstrate the ability to follow directions of adults on the first request. 

¨                Students will understand the importance of following directions and how it pertains to their lives.

All Core Virtues

¨                Students will understand and demonstrate an understanding of all Core Value words. 

1^st Grade

Getting back to school

¨                Overview of class and school rules.

Icebreakers

¨                Students will gain knowledge of self and others.

Self Esteem---Six weeks

¨                Students will learn to better understand self.

¨                Students will gain a better understanding of feelings and how they feel about themselves.

Friendship

¨                Students will learn the importance of friendship and how to approach others that you want to be friends with.

Social Skills

¨                Students will gain a better understanding of age appropriate behaviors.

Hygiene

¨                Students will understand the importance of looking good and demonstrate the ability to display proper hygiene.

Stranger Danger

¨                Students will understand the meaning of stranger danger and how to avoid dangerous situations.

All Core Virtues

¨                Students will understand and demonstrate an understanding of all Core Value words.

2^nd Grade

Getting back to school

¨                Overview of class and school rules.

Icebreakers

¨                Students will gain knowledge of self and others.

Sportsmanship and getting along with others—Six weeks

¨                Students will gain knowledge in teamwork, being better sports and handling losing.

Self Esteem

¨                Students will learn about themselves and their likes and dislikes.

¨                Students will display a better understanding of others and their individuality.

Friendship

¨                Students will understand the importance of being a good friend and maintaining friendships with others.

Social Skills

¨                Students will gain more confidence and knowledge of appropriate behaviors in social settings.

Hygiene

¨                Students will continue their growth and awareness of the importance of hygiene.

Stranger and Touch Review

¨                Students will demonstrate knowledge of situations when strangers are present.

All Core Virtues

¨                Students will understand and demonstrate an understanding of all Core Value words.

3^rd Grade

Getting back to school

¨                Overview of class and school rules.

Icebreakers

¨                Students will learn more about themselves and others in their classroom.

Bullying—Six weeks

¨                Students will demonstrate a knowledge base of what a bully is.

¨                Students will understand how to handle bullying behavior.

Respecting others feelings

¨                Students will learn and display a better understanding of their actions and the effects that they have on other students’ feelings.

Understanding and getting along with others

¨                Students will continue to display

Friendship

¨                Students will identify qualities of a good friend and demonstrate these in their classrooms.

Family Responsibilities

¨                Student will learn the importance of working together to assist a family in running smoothly.

Hygiene

¨                Students will continue to identify the importance hygiene and taking care of their bodies.

Careers

¨                Students will begin to look at careers and identify any of interest to them.

All Core Virtues

¨                Students will understand and demonstrate an understanding of all Core Value words.

4^th Grade

Getting back to school

¨                Overview of class and school rules.

Icebreakers

¨                Students will learn more about themselves and others in their classroom.

Friendship—Six weeks

¨                Students will learn more about being a good friend and display these skills in their classroom.

¨                Students will demonstrate the importance of others feelings and how their actions and choices impact others.

¨                Students will understand and demonstrate the qualities of a good friend.

Getting along with others

¨                Students will identify ways in which they can get along better with others in the classroom and in their families.

Bullying

¨                Students will continue to address bullying issues and learn effective ways to deal with bullies.

Understanding self

¨                Students will continue to look at themselves in address things about themselves they would like to improve or change.

Decision making—good and bad choices

¨                Students will use decision making skills to look at their choices both good and bad.

Organization

¨                Students will demonstrate organizational skills and recognize the importance of these skills in their everyday lives.

Careers

¨                Students will continue to address and look at careers and their interest levels.

All Core Virtues

¨                Students will understand and demonstrate an understanding of all Core Value words.

5^th Grade

Getting back to school

¨                Overview of class and school rules.

Icebreakers

¨                Students will learn more about themselves and others in their classroom.

Growing Healthy—Six weeks

¨                Students will identify ways to keep themselves healthier by looking at the importance of exercise.

¨                Students will learn more about their body and identify the changes that occur during this time.

¨                Students will identify the differences between the male and female body.

“I” messages

¨                Students will use “I” messages to discuss their feelings.

Decision Making

¨                Students will continue to address their decision making and discuss how they come to their decisions.

Bullying

¨                Students will identify bullying tactics and how to handle bullies in and out of school.

Friendship

¨                Students will identify qualities of a good friend and demonstrate their ability to be a good friend.

Careers

¨                Students will continue their exploration of careers and their interest areas.

All Core Virtues

¨                Students will understand and demonstrate an understanding of all Core Value words.

6^th Grade

Getting back to school

¨                Overview of class and school rules.

Icebreakers

¨                Students will learn more about themselves and others in their classroom.

Smoking, Alcohol, Drugs---Six weeks

¨                Students will gain an understanding of the impact that smoking, alcohol and drugs have on their bodies.

¨                Students will develop knowledge of ads and campaigns that lure them to use tobacco and alcohol.

¨                Students will understand the importance of making good and healthy choices.

Friendship

¨                Students will demonstrate their ability to maintain healthy relationships and begin to narrow down things that they want in their friendships.

Hygiene

¨                Students will review growing healthy unit and understand the importance of cleanliness and their body.

Decision making

¨                Students will discuss importance of good and bad choices.

Careers

¨                Students will continue search of careers and learn more about where their interests are.

All Core Virtues

¨                Students will understand and demonstrate an understanding of all Core Value words.

 APPENDIX B

Grade 7

Surf the Web

Students will be able to identify safe websites that can help them plan for their high school experience and beyond. 

Study Habits & Priorities

Students will identify attitudes and behaviors which lead to successful learning.

Bullying

Students will recognize, accept, appreciate, and respect individual differences.

Career Portfolios

Students will develop an awareness of personal abilities, skills, interests, and motivations.

Respect & Conflict Resolution

Students will use effective communication skills and recognize that everyone has rights and responsibilities.

Goal Setting

Students will learn the goal setting process.  Students will identify personal strengths and assets and plan for an application of these strengths in their future.

Teamwork and Cooperation

Students will use effective communication skills and know that communication involves speaking, listening, and nonverbal behavior.    Students will demonstrate cooperative behavior in groups.

Communication

Students will use effective communication skills and know that communication involves speaking, listening, and nonverbal behavior.

Grade 8

Study Habits

Students will apply time management and task management skills.

Career Research & Presentations

Students will understand how school success and academic achievement enhance future career and vocational opportunities.  Students will develop skills to locate, evaluate, and interpret career information.  Students will effectively communicate what they have learned regarding specific careers of interest.

Achievement and Judging Others

Students will demonstrate how abilities and achievement relate to achieving personal, social, educational, and career goals.  Students will recognize, accept, respect, and appreciate individual differences. 

Goal Setting

Students will further their knowledge of the goal setting process.

Self-Esteem & Depression                     

Students will identify resource people in the school and community and how to seek their help.  Students will differentiate between situations requiring peer support and situations requiring adult or professional help.

Listening and Interviewing Skills

Students will use effective communication skills and know that communication involves speaking, listening, and nonverbal behavior.  Students will develop an awareness of personal abilities, skills, interests, and motivations.

Grade 9

Test Taking Skills

Students will identify attitudes and behaviors which lead to successful learning.  Students will apply time management and task management skills.  Students will seek information and support from faculty, staff, family, and peers.

GPA & Learning Style

Students will understand the relationship between classroom performance and success in school.  Students will identify personal strengths and assets.

Decision Making Skills

Students will accept mistakes as essential to the learning process.  Students will take responsibility for their actions and demonstrate dependability, productivity, and initiative related to their own success.

Perceptions

Students will challenge their own preconceived notions of certain populations.  Students will identify and express feelings.  Students will recognize, respect, accept, and appreciate that everyone has differences.

Self Esteem and Goal Setting

Students will further their knowledge of the goal setting process.  Students will demonstrate an awareness of their own strengths and develop ways to work on what they perceive as their own weaknesses.

Career Comparisons Internet Search

Students will use research and information resources to obtain career information.  Students will use the Internet to access career planning information.

Career Information/Classifieds Search

Students will demonstrate an awareness of the education and training needed to achieve career goals.  Students will apply decision-making skills to career planning.

What Scholarship Contributors and Colleges Look For

Students will become aware of the components which are typically necessary to receive scholarships and admittance to post secondary institutions.

Grade 10

PLAN Preparation

Students will learn the purpose of the PLAN test, how its results can be used, and how to best prepare for the test.

Career Fair

Students will learn about the variety of traditional and non-traditional occupations.

Stress and Coping Skills

Students will develop effective coping skills for dealing with problems.  Students will identify alternative solutions to problems.  Students will demonstrate when, where, and how to seek help for solving problems and making decisions. 

Navigating College Brochures and Information

Students will understand college and vocational resources and how to gather information regarding post high school planning.

Career Comparisons Internet Search

Students will use research and information resources to obtain career information.  Students will use the Internet to access career planning information.

Critical Thinking Skills

Students will demonstrate the ability to work independently, as well as the ability to work cooperatively with others.  Students will utilize intrapersonal skills to brainstorm a variety of hypothetical situations.

Goals and Decision Making Skills

Students will further their knowledge of the goal setting process.  Students will develop an awareness of the thought process that should go into successful decision making.

What Scholarship Contributors and Colleges Look For

Students will become aware of the components which are typically necessary to receive scholarships and admittance to post secondary institutions.

Grade 11

ACT/SAT/PSAT Preparation

Students will learn the purpose and basic details of each test, how its results can be used, and how to best prepare for the test.

PSAT Preparation

Students will become knowledgeable of what areas they should focus on for the PSAT.

ASVAB Preparation 

Students will learn the purpose and of the ASVAB, how its results can be used, and how to best prepare for the test.

Post High School Planning

Students will share their post high school plans and devise a checklist of things to accomplish before graduation.

College Fair

Students will receive and record information on their colleges of choice.

Drug Use and Abuse

Students will learn about the physical and emotional dangers of substance abuse. 

Success in the Workplace

Students will understand the consequences of decisions and choices.  Students will understand the relationship between educational achievement and career success.

Organizational Skills/Checklist and Preparation for Senior Year

Students will organize and apply academic information from a variety of sources.  Students will begin to learn what is expected throughout their final semesters of high school.

Online College Search

Students will effectively utilize the Internet to discover information related to the colleges of their choice.

Grade 12

Senior Packets and Important Information

Students will receive information on financial aid, the college application process, and other resources designed to make their transition to college as smooth as possible.

Course Plan/Transcripts/Scholarship Information

Students will receive information on various scholarship opportunities and the application process.  Students will become familiar with their transcripts and develop a finalized plan for their senior year.

Personal Information Sheets/Post High School Plans

Students will develop a document that showcases their academic, social, and athletic achievements to allow for more efficient teacher recommendation process.  Students will create an informational sheet which illustrates their plans for after high school.

Suicide: Resources and Warning Signs

Students will become aware of the effects of suicide, what warning signs to look for, and resources to access related to the topic.

Self-Awareness/Personality Styles

Students will gain a better understanding of their own personalities and the effects it may have upon those around them.  Students will begin to become aware of how to assess the communication styles and behaviors of their peers.

Transitioning  

Students will learn coping skills for managing life events and the move from high school to a post secondary location.

Drug & Alcohol Prevention

In grades 7-12, a program called "LifeSkills"  is implemented, along with other education on the topics of drug and alcohol prevention.  Heather Bakeberg, our Prevention Specialist, provides instruction related to drug and alcohol abuse, as well as other risk-taking behaviors.  Special attention is paid to how drugs affect the body, pressures associated with drug use, consequences of abuse, and alternatives to drug or alcohol use. 

Ms. Bakeberg also co-facilitates various prevention activities throughout the school on a monthly basis.  Some activities include Red Ribbon Week, Great American Smoke-Out, and drug and alcohol trivia.  She also assists the Junior High Cavalier Club with some of their service activities.   

2008 Oral Interp Members

2008 State Competitor:  Mark Sperry (Superior Rating)

Freshmen:  Kelli Snyder, Kaitlyn Newman, Jodi Artz, Kaycee Karst, Mark Sperry & Amber Norton

Sophomores: Emily Sperry & Sam Papousek

Sophomores: Grace Kessler & Amanda Randall  Freshmen:  Emily Sperry

Humorous:  Amanda Randall      Duet:  Dylan Kessler & Grace Kessler

SENIORS!!!  START APPLYING FOR COLLEGE & SCHOLARSHIPS!  PRIORITY DEADLINES CAN BE EARLIER THAN YOU THINK!

18th-Registration deadline for October ACT testing

1st-College Fair/Career Expo for all Juniors & Seniors at Aberdeen Central

14th-PSAT for all Juniors who are interested (it is highly recommended that you take this test!)  This is the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship, which could potentially get you a FULL RIDE to college! 

21st-PLAN (Pre-ACT) for all Sophomores who are interested (it is highly recommended that you take this test!)

24th-ACT @ NSU

6th-Registration deadline for December ACT testing

17th-ASVAB for ALL Juniors

12th-ACT @ NSU

Financial Aid Information Night (FAIN) @ 6pm in the RHS Cafeteria

Registration Night 7pm RHS

6th-ACT @ NSU

ACT Prep Course at PC---TBA

22nd-26th--SD State Writing Assessment for grades 5, 7, & 10

TONS OF SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINES ARE FAST APPROACHING!!!

1th-ACT @ NSU

7th-Registration deadline for June 12th ACT test

18th~High School Awards Night

23rd~GRADUATION!!!

AES Engineers Scholarship--$500--Students will submit an essay on one of the two topics that appear on the scholarship page of our web site   http://www.aesengineers.com/scholarships.htm  Full details are available on the site.  Deadline:  October 6th, 2009

Horatio Alger Scholarship:  $1000-$20,000--Must intend to pursue a 4-year degree, must show critical financial need (preferably $50,000 or lower gross income per family) Minimum GPA of 2.0--Online only--www.horatioalger.com/scholarships---Applications dueOctober 30th, 2009

Coca-Cola Scholarship-Students who demonstrate leadership, commitment to community, and academic achievement should seek applications!  $10,000-$20,000 is up for grabs!  Apply online at www.coca-colascholars.org  Deadline: October 31st, 2009

Prudential Spirit of Community Award:  All students in grades 7-12 are eligible to apply.  Must have participated in volunteer service.  Go online to www.prudential.comto apply!  Deadline:  November 2nd, 2009

Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Scholarship--$4000-$60,000--Applications will be judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.  Apply at www.elks.org/enf/scholarsor pick up an application in the counseling office.  All applications must be turned into the local Elks Lodge at 705 Circle Avenue in Aberdeen.  Deadline:  November 2nd, 2009

Fire 2nd Annual "Freedom in Academia" Student Essay Contest--$1000-$5000--Must write an essay (700-1200 words) on freedom of speech on college campuses.  For more details and to enter, go to www.thefire.org/contests  Deadline:  November 6th, 2009

NFIB Young Entrepreneur Award--$1000-$10,000--  Have you ever baby-sat, walked dogs, mowed lawns, tutored, or anything similar?  If you have entrepreneurial spirit and initiative, you should apply.  GPA and class rank are taken into account, as well as ACT scores.  Apply online at www.NFIB.com/YEA  Click on the "Apply Now" link.  There is an essay component involved, as well.  Deadline:  December 31st, 2009.

SD OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS CAN BE SENT TO THE FINANCIAL AID OFFICES OF THE COLLEGES YOU PLAN TO ATTEND AFTER SEMESTER GRADES ARE RECEIVED!

The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program-$500-$18,000-Must be in grades 9-12--Must be able to speak on four different amendments/articles of the Constitution in front of a panel of judges.  Contact Dale Strom at post24@aberdeenlegion.orgif interested.  Deadline:  First week in January (tentatively)

Elks National Foundation 2010 Most Valuable Student Scholarship-$4000-$60,000-Essay portion and letters of recommendation required. Go to www.elks.org/enf/scholarsto apply.Deadline:  January 11th, 2010

Wells Fargo Community Scholarship- $1000 for a deserving student and a possible $1000 for their high school.  Go to www.walmartfoundation.orgto apply.  Deadline:  January 14th, 2008

Kiwanis Educational Foundation Scholarship-Must have a letter of recommendation from a teacher addressing character, level of responsibility, and attitude.  Application forms can be found in Miss Vermillion's office.  Deadline:  January 16th, 2009

SD Dept. of Revenue & Regulation Investor Protection Trust Essay Contest-$100-$5000 in cash!-Must write a 5-page essay on "How to Create Financial Independence by Understanding Five Principles of Investing".  All rules for this essay contest are at www.state.sd.us/securities/essay.htmDeadline:  January 20th, 2009

McKelvey Foundation Entrepreneurial Scholarship--up to $40,000--Must be planning to attend a 4-year college, own and operate a genuine business, and have at least one employee.  Go to www.mckelveyfoundation.orgto apply.  Deadline:  January 15th, 2008

S.D. Association of Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors Educational Foundation Scholarship--$500-$1000--Intended for students who wish to pursue an education in the PHC industry.  Deadline:  January 15th, 2008

Junior Chamber International (JCI) Scholarship.  Go to http://www.usjcisenate.org/sd for applications.--$200-$1000--Deadline:  January 15th, 2008

Sam Walton Community Scholarship--Avaliable online starting November 1st.  $1000-Application must be filled out online...go to www.walmartfoundation.org  You will need the access code:  SWCS  Deadline:  January 14th, 2008

Davis-Bahcall Scholarship--- a one-of-a-kind opportunity for South Dakota students who love science. Recipients study at the Sanford Lab at Homestake in Lead, S.D., the Gran Sasso National Underground Laboratory in Italy, and Princeton University in New Jersey. Students are accompanied by a chaperone.  Up to 10 students will be chosen to receive scholarships that cover tuition, room and board, and travel for the summer-study program. A total of $25,000 in scholarship money is available. Must be a high school senior or college freshman to apply.  Applications and more details can be found at www.doe.sd.govDeadline:  January 30th, 2009

Dakota Corps Scholarship: Full tuition (just tuition...not room and board, books, expenses) up to 4 years--Requirements: 2.8 GPA or greater--Composite ACT of 24 or greater--Must agree to stay in SD and work in a critical need occupation for as many years as the scholarship was received---must attend a participating SD college. Deadline: February 1st, 2009

Daughters of the American Revolution Lucy Hoskins Ayres Scholarship:  Any SD senior or college student who is the child or grandchild of a veteran of armed conflicts or career military personnel who entered, enlisted, or re-enlisted in the service as a resident of SD may apply.  Deadline:  February 1st, 2010

ESA Foundation Scholarships:  Various Amounts--$5 processing fee required for each scholarship for which you apply (up to 3)Requirements may vary based on specific scholarships.  Must go to www.esaintl.com/esaffor materials.  Click on "Scholarship Application" on left sidebar>ESA Foundation Scholarship Application and Guidelines>Print Application>Go back to items under ESA Foundation Scholarship>Click on Current List of ESAF Scholarships Available by State>Click on SD>Print this list.  Deadline:  February 1st, 2010

Burger King Scholars Program--$1000--Requirements:  GPA of 2.5 or higher, must work an average of 15 hours per week or 40 weeks out of the year, demonstrate financial need, be actively involved in community service activities, and must plan to attend a 2-year or 4-year institution in the Fall (you do NOT have to work at BK to apply!).  Applications can be found at www.bk.com/scholarswith the Access Key:  BKS  Deadline:  February 2nd, 2009

KFC Colonel's Scholars: Up to $5000 per year of college--must have a 2.75 GPA or greater, must be enrolling at an in-state university and pursuing a bachelor's degree (4 years).  Complete application at www.kfcscholars.org  CANNOT APPLY UNTIL DECEMBER 1ST  Deadline:  February 10th, 2010

Northern Electric Cooperative Scholarship/Basin Electric--$500-$1000--Requirements: Parents must be customers/members of Northern Electric Cooperative/Basin Electric, 1 letter of recommendation, copy of ACT scores, short essay, transcript.  Deadline:  February 19th, 2010

Best Buy Scholarship:  Must apply online at www.BestBuy.com/scholarships.  Deadline:  February 15th, 2010

Yankton College Scholarships:  $1000 - All applicants must have a relative who attended or worked at Yankton College or have had significant contact with a Yankton College graduate, former staff or faculty member.Can be used at any college or university in the U.S.  Deadline:  February 12th, 2010

Stratford Community Theatre Scholarship--$500--Applicant should exhibit outstanding school and community involvement.  Deadline:  February 26th, 2010.

Ardell Bjugstad Scholarship---$500--Must be an enrolled member of a federally recognized Native American tribe.  Must be pursuing a degree in agriculture, natural resources, or a related field.  Deadline:  February 24th, 2010

Annis I. Fowler/Kaden Scholarship---$1000---Must have a 3.0 GPA and be planning to attend DSU, USD, NSU, or BHSU to pursue Elementary Education.  Deadline:  February 24th, 2010

Amateur Softball Scholarship-For any Senior who has been involved in the ASA program or has a parent who has been involved in the last three years.  $500 scholarships are available.  Deadline: March 1st, 2010

HealthCare Plus Federal Credit Union will be awarding two $500 scholarships.  Applicants must be current credit union members.  Deadline: March 2nd, 2010

Sammy 2009 Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Award:  $7500- Based on academic performance, athletic excellence, leadership, community service, and milk experience.  Must apply online at www.bodybymilk.com Deadline:  March 5th, 2010

Better Business Bureau--Scott Mecham Student of Integrity Award:  $2000--Awarded to students who exemplify ethical behavior  and personal integrity and who demonstrate humility, courage, compassion, and respect for their teachers, peers, and community.  Applications can be found at www.southdakota.bbb.orgor in Miss Vermillion's office.  Deadline:  March 6th, 2009

Zonta Young Women in Public Affairs Scholarship--$300-$1000--Must show commitment to volunteerism & show evidence of volunteer leadership achievements.  Essay portion required as well as two letters of recommendation  Deadline:  March 12th, 2010

Hagen/Harvey Memorial Scholarship--$1000-$2500--Must be an enrolled member of a tribe whose reservation is located in whole or part in SD.  Application can be found online at http://doe.sd.gov/scholarships/hagen/index.asp  Deadline: March 12th, 2010

Joe Foss...An American Hero Scholarship- $1000-Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better and a minimum ACT score of 21    Deadline:  March 15th, 2010

American Cancer Society Scholarship--Must have been diagnosed with cancer before the age of 21.Deadline:  March 15th, 2010

Fred and Marie Christopherson Scholarship-$2500- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.9 after 7 semesters and a minimum ACT score of 28 Must be attending a 4 year SD university or college.  Deadline:  March 15th, 2010

Insuring a Brighter Tomorrow Scholarship--$1000--must be going to a SD school.  Essay component.  Financial need is a factor.  Go to www.sdfufoundation.org and click on the "Scholarships" link for an application.  Deadline:  March 15th, 2009

Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship--$1500--Must have GPA of 3.5 or above and ACT score of 30 or above.  Application can be found online at http://doe.sd.gov/scholarships/byrd/index.asp  Deadline:  March 19th, 2010

Marlin L. Johnson Memorial Scholarship--$500--Must be an active, registered member of the Aberdeen Gun Club--must be attending a college in SD in the Fall of 2009  Deadline:  March 25th, 2010

F.W. Hatterscheidt Educational Scholarship-$1500-Must have a 3.0 GPA, MUST APPLY FOR FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID (FAFSA) TO QUALIFY, Deadline:  Turn into Miss Vermillion by March 26th, 2010

Avera St. Luke's Auxiliary Scholarship---$500--Must be in the upper 50% of graduating class.  Must be attending a SD university & plan on pursuing a degree in a health-related field.  Deadline:  March 30th, 2010

South Brown Conservation District Robert Knickrehm Agricultural Scholarship--$500--Must be planning to attend a SD school and enroll in a course of study related to agriculture--Deadline:  March 31st, 2010

Karst Memorial Scholarship--$300--Student must be in the top 50% of class and be going into an ag-related field---Deadline:  March 31st, 2010

Dacotah Bank/SD Bankers Scholarship--$2000--Student's family must have an account with Dacotah Bank, Dacotah Insurance, Dacotah Trust, or the Investment Centers of America located @ Dacotah Bank.  Must be attending a SD University or technical institute.  Must send in 3 copies of application.  Deadline:  March 31st, 2010

US Bank Internet Scholarship Program-$1000-No essays, no minimum GPA required.  Program runs October through February.  Apply online at usbank.com/studentloans  Deadline: March's end

SD Opportunity Scholarship:  $5000 over four years-- Requirements: ACT score of 24 or higher--Complete Regents Scholar curriculum with no final grade below a C---GPA of 3.0 or higher--attend NCA accredited school in SD. Deadline: September 1st, 2010 (You can apply for this at any time during second semester!!!)

WEB Water Development Assoc. Inc. Scholarship Fund-$500-Parents must receive WEB water service at either a cabin, rural hookup, or municipal hookup or from a town or bulk user system served by WEB.  Deadline:  April 1st, 2010

Pioneer Hi-Bred International Scholarship--$500--Must be majoring in science, agriculture, or business field. Requires a 2.75 GPA ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE TURNED INTO MISS VERMILLION BY APRIL 8TH!!! Deadline:  April 8th, 2009

Steve Risager Aberdeen Optimist Scholarship--$1000--Based on student's activities, volunteerism, honors, work experience, and GPA  Deadline:  April 15th, 2009

P.E.O. Chapter BX Scholarship--$300--Must be a female attending NSU, Presentation College, or Cottey College.  Activities/community involvement, character, and academics are all factors.  Deadline:  April 15th, 2010

Aberdeen Scottish Rite Book Grant Program-$100-Must be attending a SD university or school.  Must attach 1-page paper describing activities you have been involved in and your contribution to your community.  Deadline: April 15th, 2010

Bishop Hoch Deanery Scholarship--Applicant's family must be active registered members of a Catholic parish in the Diocese of Sioux Falls.  Must be eligible for admission to Mt. Marty or Presentation College.  Deadline:  April 16th, 2010

Minerva/OES Scholarship--$500--Must have an ACT of 20 or above, top third of class, teacher recommendations.  Deadline:  April 20th, 2010

Hovland English Award--$100--Must have earned an "A" in every semester of English throughout high school.  Essay component (500 words).  Deadline:  April 23rd, 2009

William A. Bormes, M.D. Science Award---$250--open to all seniors who have participated in the area of science and will be furthering their education in the field of science.  Deadline:  April 23rd, 2009

Carol C. Maloney Fine Arts Award--$50 Savings Bond--open to all seniors who have participated in one or more of the following: Music, Theatre, Journalism, Creative Writing, Debate, Oral Interp, or Art.  Deadline:  April 23rd, 2009

3M Scholarship---$750---Forms in Miss V's office. Must write a one-page essay on the importance of the field in which you plan to major and why you chose that field.  Must be pursuing a degree in a math or science related field.  All applications should be turned into Miss Vermillion.  Deadline:  EXTENDED TO APRIL 30TH

Aberdeen Sertoma Club Youth Service Scholarship--$500--must have completed 100 hours of community service in the past 2 years.  Essay on service and 2 letters of recommendation required.  Deadline:  April 30th, 2010
 

Aberdeen Community Theatre Donald H. Hall Scholarship-$250-$500:  Applicants must have previous experience (onstage or offstage) with ACT and/or Young People's Theatre--must have auditioned for or worked backstage or acted onstage in 2009-10.  Also, they must be planning to enroll in NSU theatre courses.  Deadline:  May 28th, 2010

Upon Graduation:  SD Opportunity Scholarship:  $5000 over four years-- Requirements: ACT score of 24 or higher--Complete Regents Scholar curriculum with no final grade below a C---GPA of 3.0 or higher--attend NCA accredited school in SD. Deadline: September 1st, 2010 (You can apply for this at any time during second semester!!!)

Abbott and Fenner Business Consultants Scholarship:  Deadline:  June 19th, 2010 http://www.abbottandfenner.com/scholarships.htm 

AES Scholarship---$500--Our belief is that achieving a high grade point average should not be the only criteria for determining who deserves to be helped. For that reason we are offering a scholarship that will be awarded on the basis of character, as determined by evaluating the essays that are submitted.  Go to  http://www.aesengineers.com/scholarships.phpfor application details.  Deadline:  October 8th, 2010

Associated General Contractors of SD-Highway-Heavy Utilities Chapter Scholarship:  $1000-$2500--Must be pursuing a career in a construction related field.  Applications can be found at www.sdagc.org Deadline:  May 1st, 2009

FINANCIAL AID LINKS

Cash for College  http://www.nasfaa.org/SubHomes/CashForCollege/index2.html
FAFSA Instructions www.ed.gov/prog_info/SFA/FAFSA
FAFSA on the WEB www.fafsa.ed.gov
Financial Aid for Students www.ed.gov/offices/OPE/students/index.html
Fin Aid–Can You Afford It? www.nasfaa.org/DoItAffordIt/afforditcover.html
Financial Aid Info. Page  http://www.finaid.org

GET YOUR PIN #   http://www.pin.ed.gov/PINWebApp/pinindex.jsp
 

SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION LINKS

Absolutely Scholarships http://www.absolutelyscholarship.com/exec/scholarship
Fast Web http://www.fastweb.com
Go College  http://www.gocollege.com/goscholarshipsearch                                                                                                    MACH-25  http://www.collegenet.com/mach25
Scholarships  http://www.scholarships.com
SRN Express  http://www.srnexpress.com/index.cfm
Scholarship Scam Info. http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edscams/scholarship/

Cappex  www.Cappex.com/scholarships

TESTING LINKS

For more information on the ACT Test, or to register online, and to take practice tests, click below;

www.actstudent.org

For more information on the SAT Test, or to register online click below;

www.collegeboard.com

GENERAL COLLEGE & CAREER SEARCH INFORMATION

Academics – You Can Do It! www.nasfaa.org/DoItAffordIt/doitcover.html
America’s Career Info Net www.acinet.org
ACT www.act.org
College is Possible www.collegeispossible.com
Embark www.embark.com
Mapping Your Future www.mapping-your-future.org
Occupational Outlook Handbook www.bls.gov/ocohome.htm

O*Net Online  http://online.onetcenter.org/

Career Info Net  ACInet

Career Explorer  http://www.careerexplorer.net

CareerOneStop  http://www.careeronestop.org

College Navigator  http://collegenavigator.ed.gov

VARIOUS INFORMATION

NCAA Clearinghouse-  https://www.ncaaclearinghouse.net/NCAA/common/index.html

PBS for Parents-  http://www.pbs.org/parents/

Internet Safety-  http://www.safekids.com/child_safety.htm

Bullying-  http://stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov/index.asp?area=main

Raising Successful Teens-  http://www.childdevelopmentinfo.com/parenting/teens.shtml

HEALTH ISSUES

Eating Disorders-  http://www.something-fishy.org/

Suicide Info & Prevention- http://www.psycom.net/depression.central.suicide.htm

Self-Injurious Behaviors- http://www.selfinjury.org/

Teen Health Issues- http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/

Drug Abuse- http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/index.asp 

Graduation

Requirements

(S.D. Opportunity Scholarship)

• An ACT composite score of 18 to 21, depending on the university
• Rank in the top 60% of high school graduating class
• Cumulative high school GPA of 2.6 or higher

*Students seeking Regent Scholars diplomas must have no final grade below a C in required coursework and an overall GPA of at least a 3.0

*Students seeking the SD Opportunity Scholarship (only available to students attend a SD University) must complete Regents Scholar requirements and must have an ACT score of 24 or higher