College & Career Center

An Apprenticeship is a combination of PAID on-the-job training (OJT)and related classroom instruction under the supervision of a professional craft person or trade professional.  These programs vary in length, pay, and intensity among the various trades.  More information is available at:

http://www.apprenticeship.gov/become-apprentice - U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship Website

         http://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/appr Maryland Department of Labor Apprenticeship Information

         http://steamfitters-602.org/ Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Process Piping Industry 

         http://www.washdcjatc.org/ Electrical and Telecommunications 

         http://www.ua.org/ Plumbers, Fitters, Welders, and Service Techs

         http://www.iuoelocal77.com/ Skilled Equipment Operators in the Construction Industry

         http://www.local5plumbers.org/ Installing, Maintaining, and Servicing the Waste, Water, and Gas Systems 

         http://www.getchargedup.org/  Electricians 

         http://www.mactc.net/ Carpenters 

         http://www.insulators24.org/Heat and Frost Insulators 

*Find out more information about Construction Trades and Apprenticeships by clicking the picture below: 

https://www.constructyourfuture.com/ 

Maryland and U.S. Apprenticeship and Training Programs - Apprenticeships combine supervised, structured, paid on-the-job training and related technical instruction to teach apprentices the skills necessary to succeed in a specific occupation. The apprentice works full time and receives training from the sponsoring organization:

U.S. Apprenticeship and Training Program: www.apprenticeship.gov/

MD State Apprenticeship and Training Program: www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/appr/

Baltimore DC Building Trades: https://www.bdcbt.org/

If you are ready to dream big and achieve your full potential, then an apprenticeship may be right for you!!!

• Earn while you learn. Apprentices are paid a progressive wage while they learn valuable job skills.
• Increase your earning potential. The average annual starting salary for an apprentice graduate is $50,000 (according to U.S. Department of Labor statistics).
• Be in demand. Learn the skills and gain the credentials that employers want.
• Become more confident. Gain self-assurance by working independently under the tutelage of a journeyperson.

ASVAB Test at Lackey High School

Fall 2023, the ASVAB will be given to students who are interested in a career in the military. The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) helps identify which careers would best fit your skills. It does NOT bind you in any way to joining the military.  Both the High Schools and CCPS will offer test dates in the Fall and Spring. There should be at least 30 days in-between testing sessions that you participate in.  As a reminder, if a student is going to use their score for enlistment the military will pull the most recent score.  
www.march2success.com 
www.asvab-prep.com
www.asvabprogram.com
www.military.com/join-armed-forces/asvab
www.4tests.com
http://todaysmilitary.com/joining/asvab-test-sample-questions
http://official-asvab.com/samples_app.htm
www.testprepreview.com/asvab_practice.htm

Start studying for the ASVAB NOW so, you are ready to take the test when it’s available!!!

Seniors who are interested in attending the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) after they graduate, can apply NOW!!!

• Apply online at www.csmd.edu/apply-register, there is NO FEE. Under “CHOOSE YOUR PATH,” CLICK on Pursuing an associate degree or want to enroll in credit classes.

Come to the Career Center if you need help completing your application

• Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. The FAFSA is available NOW! List the College of Southern Maryland on your FAFSA. CSM’s school code is 002064. If your application is not completed, your financial aid cannot be processed.

*Please Note: In order to be considered for the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship, students must complete the FAFSA, LIST the College of Southern Maryland (Community College) on the FAFSA as one of the schools you may attend, and submit the FAFSA by March 1. Students will be notified by an email from MHEC (Maryland Higher Education Commission) of the required documentation to submit for further consideration of the Scholarship.

For more information, please visit:  Promise Scholarship Information

College Planning Timeline for Parents

Step-by-step planning tips to help your student prepare for college.

9th grade help your child prepare for college

10th grade help your child prepare for college

11th grade help your child prepare for college

12th grade help your child prepare for college

How to Complete A College Application

College Planning Guide

https://sway.office.com/M2FIXVc1BOUO8Kdx?ref=Link

College Application Process

https://sway.office.com/M2FIXVc1BOUO8Kdx?ref=Link

Choosing a College

https://sway.office.com/RjQpIxJrzvvsLMkg?ref=Link

College Admissions Process

https://sway.office.com/VMopvoC6GbzGjcxo?ref=Link

College Financial Aid Process

https://sway.office.com/2fFToBdwq2NTXNsT

College Searches

www.collegequest.com

www.access.bridges.com

www.petersons.com

www.gocollege.com

www.a2zcolleges.com

 

The Common Application: There are over 900 Colleges and Universities using the Common App. While they represent tremendous diversity in size, mission, location, and selectivity, they all share a commitment of promoting access through holistic admission. For more information and to see which colleges and universities accept the Common Application go to: www.commonapp.org.

Need HELP completing the Common App, please visit: https://www.commonapp.org/help

Common Black College Application

DID YOU KNOW??

Common Black College Application: Apply to 60+ member institutions with ONE $20.00 application fee. For more information and to see which colleges are on the application click here: or call (770)716-0616. (*Includes 3 Maryland schools – Coppin State University, Morgan State University, & University of Maryland Eastern Shore!!!)

Need HELP completing the CBCA, please visit: https://commonblackcollegeapp.com/instructions/

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) will open on October 1st! ALL SENIORS who are planning to pursue ANY type of post-secondary education (college, community college, trade, vocational, technical, or career school) need to COMPLETE THE FAFSA!  The FAFSA is used by all schools in awarding federal student aid such as federal loans, grants, and federal work study.  In additional, the state uses the FAFSA information to determine if students qualify for any state aid; and schools use the information from the FAFSA to offer school based financial aid awards to students including MERIT aid!  Don't miss the opportunity to earn FREE money to help you pay for school!!!

Financial Aid Night Presentation

https://csmd.zoom.us/rec/share/RPO_BSZLsv1i-604BUFqNGPERR6wSPiIcZej9tKWMczIL2vSU8VSXoqR0ve5uxjD.1SP2yqUMwT73U3nW?startTime=1602692212000

For information about the FAFSA and how financial aid works, go to:

https://studentaid.gov/h/understand-aid/how-aid-works

https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. 

This year's Virtual Financial Aid Presentation

https://csmd.zoom.us/rec/share/NKJx0wTUxfiLX4vdAIbxYTppNh6DmTY6ea4QcTxyGd6eVxcqkT7_DqYSjHENiA-0.AdrOAPhp8qhN9CrAPasscode: Zt+B7R6J 

Helpful Financial Aid Sites

Creating and Using the FSA ID

Don't Get Scammed on Your Way to College

Guide to Federal Student Aid - Do You Need Money For College?

FAFSA - What Information Do I Need When I Fill Out the FAFSA?

Federal Student Aid - from The Department of U. S. Education

Federal Student Loan Programs

What You Need to Know About Financial Aid - Financial Aid Overview

Presentation Focusing on FAFSA

http://www.marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DSFSS/SSSP/MCAC/FAFSAHelp.asp

Support with filling out the FAFSA and obtaining the Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID)

Maryland Office of Financial Aid

Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship

Guaranteed Access Grant

Here is a video link on How to read a College Financial Aid Statement:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0SQ2MDQFno

Need HELP completing the FAFSA???

Financial Aid Representatives at the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Financial Assistance Department are available to assist you, even if you are not going to CSM.  Please contact them at 301-934-7531 or email them at finaid@csmd.edu.   

For more information and resources, you may also visit the CSM Financial Assistance Website at:

http://www.csmd.edu/costs-aid/financial-assistance-office

MARYLAND HIGHER EDUCATION COMMISSION (MHEC) STATE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS & APPLICATIONS

The State has an extensive array of financial aid programs in the form of grants, scholarships and other awards for students who want to further their education beyond high school.  For more information, please click on the following link: 

http://mhec.maryland.gov/preparing/Pages/FinancialAid/index.aspx

* Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) and Maryland College Processing System (MDCAPS)

MDCAPS is MHEC's comprehensive financial aid system that allows them to process State scholarship applications.  Students will need to create an account on MDCAPS so they can receive any information about state financial aid/scholarships they may receive and complete any additional paperwork that may be needed to process the financial aid/scholarships.  Seniors, please click on the link to create an MDCAPS account:  

https://mdcaps.mhec.state.md.us/ 

Financial Aid/Scholarship Links

www.finaid.org

www.salliemae.com/

scholarships.com

www.mhec.state.md.us

www.mapccs.org

going2college.org

www.cappex.com/scholarships

www.MDgo4it.org

Students and recent graduates may be eligible for federal internships and job opportunities through the Pathways and other student programs. For more information go to:

http://www.usajobs.gov/Help/working-in-government/unique-hiring-paths/students/

National Security Agency (NSA) Student Internships

 

 

We offer internships, scholarships, a co-op program and other programs for students in high school up through doctoral candidates. The application process for our student programs is the same as our job application process.

Our programs are paid; salary is based on your education level. We may also offer paid time off, holiday and sick leave, subsidized housing assistance (if eligible) and travel reimbursement (if eligible).

Department of Defense (DOD)

DOD Provides a Website to Help Youth Explore Pathways for Their Future: Figure out what’s next! This website presents career, college and the Military as options, allowing students to explore all possibilities and gain insight into each option. More than 1,000 civilian and military career fields and nearly 7,000 accredited colleges and trade schools are featured. Go to: www.myfuture.com.

Freshman Calendar

Sophomore Calendar

Junior Calendar

Senior Calendar

Military Academies

One of the ways you can earn an officer commission in the United States armed forces is through one of the federal service academies, also referred to as military academies. The academies are colleges for the undergraduate education and training of commissioned officers for the United States Armed Forces.

JUNIORS who are interested in applying to one of the Military Service Academies, will need to start working on their applications during the spring/summer of their junior year. Look at the websites below for more information about the application timeline and application process.

The United States operates five service academies:

• United States Military Academy - West Point, New York - www.usma.edu
• United States Naval Academy - Annapolis, Maryland - www.usna.edu
• United States Coast Guard Academy - New London, Connecticut - www.uscga.edu
• United States Merchant Marine Academy - Kings Point, New York - www.usmma.edu
• United States Air Force Academy - Colorado Springs, Colorado -www.academyadmissions.com

ROTC Scholarships

Students who are interested in going into the military and would also like to go to college should consider applying for a ROTC Scholarship. Each military branch has ROTC scholarship opportunities that consist of two- three- and four-year scholarship options. For more information about how to apply for a ROTC Scholarship, please look at the following websites.

**YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE TAKING ROTC IN HIGH SCHOOL

TO APPLY FOR A ROTC SCHOLARSHIP.**

U.S. Army ROTC Scholarships - www.goarmy.com/rotc/scholarships.html

U.S. Air Force ROTC Scholarships - www.afrotc.com/scholarships/

U.S. Navy ROTC (U.S. Marine Option) Scholarships - www.navy.com/what-to-expect/education-opportunities/college-options-and-scholarships

ROTC Scholarship Applications OPEN in EARLY SUMMER!!!

NCAA INFORMATION

Students interested in competing in NCAA sports need to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center.

Students can begin to register starting their 9th grade year and should register as soon as possible. There is information on the NCAA Eligibility Center website to help guide you through the registration process. There are three account options, and you can choose the one that’s right for you!!!

• OPTION 1: Free Profile Page Account
• OPTION 2: Amateurism-Only Certification Account
• OPTION 3: Academic and Amateurism Certification Account

More information is available on the website to help you decide which account is right for YOU!

You will only need to create one account with the NCAA Eligibility Center. Starting with the FREE Profile Page is the best practice, as you can transition it later to the Certification account needed for your circumstances. There is a checklist available on the website to help you make sure you have all required information ready to enter and a list of Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about becoming a NCAA student-athlete. If you are enrolled in the Free and Reduced Lunch Program, you may receive a fee waiver to register for free. You can reach the Eligibility Center at 1-877-262-1492 or view the guidelines at www.eligibilitycenter.org.

There are many websites for potential college athletes but be wary of spending money for services. You need to check these resources very carefully and obtain references. Listening to the advice of your coaches is important. Take a look at the websites below:

www.athleticscholarships.net 
www.collegesportsscholarships.com

If you’re an athlete, the best advice we can give you is to keep up your grades. Gone are the days when athletic ability alone will get you accepted.

You must know your Core Course GPA. Keep track of your courses and the units that apply towards eligibility. Use the www.CoreCourseGPA.com program paid for by Charles County Public Schools to monitor your progress towards eligibility. Speak to your high school Coach, Athletic Director, or Counselor for further information.

How to ACTIVATE your FREE Membership:

Step 1: Go to www.CoreCourseGPA.com
Step 2: In the “New Member Account Creation” box, enter:

SCHOOL ID: 210685

REMINDER…. ***Juniors and seniors need to send your ACT and/or SAT scores directly from the testing agencies using the CODE “9999” to have your official scores considered for NCAA eligibility.

NCAA APPROVED COURSES

For a complete list of NCAA Approved courses at your high school, visit the NCAA Eligibility Center website at www.eligibilitycenter.org, create an account, navigate to the “Resources” tab, click “U.S. Students”, and then “List of NCAA Courses.” Follow the prompts to search for your high school’s list by name. Work closely with your high school counselor, athletic director, and coach to make sure you know how to go!!!

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS & TEST SCORES:
Division I Academic Requirements -

http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/Student_Resources/DI_ReqsFactSheet.pdf

Division II Academic Requirements – http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/Student_Resources/DII_ReqsFactSheet.pdf

NJCAA - National Junior College Athletic Association
Don’t have the GPA or college entrance exam scores needed for a four-year college?

Think junior colleges! Think community colleges! Many community and junior colleges across the country have full athletic programs including tackle football. Visit the National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association’s website at www.njcaa.org and find out where you can use your talents while building your academic skills for transfer to a four-year college or university program.

NAIA - National Association of Intercollegiate Association
Over 250 small colleges in the United States use the NAIA to ascertain eligibility. The NAIA Eligibility Center will determine your eligibility based on your high school grades (and sometimes your SAT/ACT scores, class rank and/or dual credit. Check out the NAIA and its member schools at PlayNAIA Eligibility Center - National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics at https://play.mynaia.org/

 

School Procedures Following Receipt of Parent Request for Excused Absence (Code 13)

CODE 13: Other emergency or set of circumstances which, in the judgement of the Superintendent or designee, constitutes a good and sufficient cause for absence from school for up to five school days per school year, including an educational trip or unique life experience. Make-up work will be allowed for approved absences and must be returned to the school three days from the date of return.

An educational trip is one in which either the student is actively receiving instruction through a structured program directly tied to the curriculum, or the student is actively visiting another school, program, or college in preparation for potential future enrollment. Siblings may also be excused.

A unique life experience may include an educational field trip, athletic competitions not sponsored by the school, unique family circumstances (i.e., deployed parent visit), and/or career or alternate work experience.

A “vacation” is not an educational trip or unique life experience.

The following procedures shall be initiated when a CODE 13 request is made from a parent/guardian:
• The Code 13 request form will be sent to the parent/guardian requesting an excused absence for reasons that they believe meet the qualifying standard of Code 13 as defined above.
• The staff member providing the request form to the parent will explain that one form should be submitted listing all students involved (i.e., siblings at other schools).
• Parents/guardians must submit the completed form to Garcia Dixon, Supervising PPW, via email at gadixon@ccboe.com no later than two (2) weeks prior to the student’s first date of absence.
• Once approved or denied, Ms. Dixon will notify the parents and the school (in writing) of her decision.
• If approved, counselors at the school(s) will collect missed assignments for the absent student(s) to complete upon their return. Students will have three school days to return completed makeup work for full credit.
• School attendance secretaries will ensure proper coding of student attendance in Synergy based on the approval/denial provided by Ms. Dixon.

Please contact the Director of Student Services if there is clarification needed.

Parent Request for Code 12 Excused Absence Form

Research and Compare Colleges

• Big Future - The College Board: Choosing a college is a big and exciting decision. Explore your interests and take the time to find a college that will put you on the path to a bright future!!! Go to: www.bigfuture.collegeboard.org

• CappexConnect Online: Connect with colleges, faculty and admissions, watch live presentations from a variety of institutions on your computers and learn more about specific colleges or college in general. Go to: www.cappex.com

• College Fair Guide: Gather information about upcoming Regional and National College Fairs. Search for locations, dates, times, workshops, and attending colleges and universities. Go to: www.collegefairguide.com

• College Fairs Online- Students can chat with admissions reps and get financial aid information as well as ask any questions they have about college. To participate, register at www.collegefairsonline.com

• College Majors 101- There are so many majors to choose from! College Majors 101 provides information and videos about college majors, lists of accredited schools, student/professional associations, examples of employers, industry publications and more! Go to: www.collegemajors101.com

• College Navigator- From the US Department of Education, this website gathers admission, retention, graduation, and financial aid data for every college in the country. Go to: www.nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator.

• College Results Online- This is an interactive, user-friendly Web tool designed to provide parents and students with information about graduation rates for nearly any four-year college or university in the country or to compare colleges. Go to: www.collegeresults.org

• College Simply- College Simply provides clear, easy to understand admission chances, rankings and tools to help simplify the college search process. Go to: www.collegesimply.com

• College Xpress- Connect with colleges to help find the right fit and search for scholarships at www.collegexpress.com

• Exploring College Options- Exploring College Options is a special informational program sponsored by the undergraduate admissions offices of five of the country's leading universities: Duke University, Georgetown University, Harvard University, University of Pennsylvania, and Stanford University. Go to: www.exploringcollegeoptions.org Research and Compare Colleges

• Exploring Educational Excellence- Information sessions presented by Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Rice University, and the University of Chicago. Go to: www.exploringeducationalexcellence.org.

• Find YOUR College Match!!! College and Scholarship programs are looking for students!!! Help them find YOU by joining the Student Search Service. Students can create an account and then start receiving emails from colleges about degree programs, campus life, financial aid, or scholarship opportunities. For more information, please visit: https://studentsearch.collegeboard.org.

• Harvard, Princeton, UVA, Wellesley, Yale Information Sessions- For more information and to register, please visit: www.hpuwy.com

• HBCU Interactive Directory- The Prince George’s County Alumnae Chapter (PGCAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated is pleased to present the inaugural publication of the “PGCAC Interactive HBCU Directory” to celebrate, support and recognize the excellence of HBCUs. You can access this HBCU Interactive Directory to find information about the HBCUs at: www.flipsnack.com/BBC66666AED/pgcac-interactive-hbcu-directory.html

• HBCU First- HBCU First provides a map of HBCUs by state and information and resources for each HBCU. Visit: https://hbcufirst.com/resources/hbcu-list-map

• NACAC College Fairs- NACAC (National Association for College Admission Counseling) provides many opportunities for students to participate in college fairs throughout the year. www.nacacfairs.org

• Niche- Niche helps you find the college that’s right for YOU! Search college reviews, rankings, and statistics. www.niche.com

• Petersons- This website provides information and tools to help you find, get in, and pay for school. Go to: www.petersons.com

• XELLO- Xello is a Career Exploration tool students can use!!! Every student has their own individual Xello account they can access through the Clever app on their Office 365 account. Students can take Career and Skills Assessments; explore Careers, Schools, & Majors; view Career and College Profiles, create their own Plan, save items to a Personalized Student Portfolio and MUCH MORE!!! Start exploring Xello NOW!!!

• University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland (USMSM)- USMSM provides learners the opportunity to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees while staying close to home. Bachelor’s degrees are available in Business, Education, Engineering, Computers & Technologies, and Social Sciences. For more information, visit:

• AP Exams and Earning College Credit- Your AP Scores can provide you the opportunity to earn credit and placement in college. For more information go to: https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/getting-credit-placemen

CHARLES COUNTY SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Maryland Scholarships

Maryland is home to a range of colleges and universities. Its most famous academic institution is Johns Hopkins University, founded in 1876. However, there are over 60 other colleges, including St. John's in Annapolis, the University of Baltimore, and the University of Maryland.

Continue exploring the links below to learn more about the exciting possibilities of a college scholarship in Maryland.

https://www.collegescholarships.com/local/maryland-scholarships

The Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship - offers students up to $5,000 annually to attend a Maryland community college. The Maryland Higher Education Commission’s (MHEC) Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) administers the scholarship. For program requirements go to:  

https://mhec.state.md.us/preparing/Pages/FinancialAid/ProgramDescriptions/prog_MDCommunityCollegePromiseScholarship.aspx

Deadline: Applicants who meet the income requirements as reported on their FAFSA or MSFAA by March 1. 

If you have any questions, contact OSFA at osfamail.mhec@maryland.gov.

CHARLES COUNTY SCHOLARSHIP WEBSITE

The Charles County Scholarship Fund offers more than 50 scholarships to Charles County high school seniors. Interested students can visit the CCPS website for eligibility criteria and additional requirements. The deadline is March 1st. 

Charles County Scholarship Fund, Inc. – Student Services

Financial Aid/Scholarship Links

www.finaid.org

www.salliemae.com/

scholarships.com

www.mhec.state.md.us

www.mapccs.org

going2college.org

www.cappex.com/scholarships

www.MDgo4it.org

TEST FEE WAIVER

Students who qualify for FREE/REDUCED LUNCH should see their counselor to get a FEE WAIVER for the test.

** School Code, CEEB Code, ETS Code -210675-This code may be needed for testing, college applications, etc.

Sending SAT and/or ACT Scores

If you need to send your SAT/ACT Scores to schools, you will need to look on each of the school's websites to find out if the scores have to be sent to them directly from the College Board (SAT) and/or ACT websites or if they will allow you to send the scores to them yourself.  If they need a copy sent directly from the College Board and/or ACT websites, you will need to log into your College Board and/or ACT account and find the link that says to send scores.  It usually costs about $12 - $15 to send the scores to each of the schools.  If they will allow YOU to send a copy of the scores, you will need to log onto your College Board and/or ACT account, click on the link to see your scores, download a PDF of your scores, then save the PDF to your computer.  You can then either print out the scores and mail them or email the scores directly to them.

https://www.collegeboard.org/ 
(SAT) - Register and practice for the SAT.  The College Board website contains FREE resources to assist students with preparing for the SAT, finding information about colleges, comparing colleges, searching for careers, and MUCH MORE!!!  

http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act.htmlRegister and practice for theACT.  The ACT website has many FREE resources available.  In addition to resources to help students prepare for the ACT, there is also information aboutScholarships,Careers,Colleges, and MORE!!!

https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt-psat-10 Information and practice resources for thePSAT/NMSQT.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ie6WBDzjtGA
Understand yourPSAT/NMSQT Score Reportby taking aVideo Tour!!!  Find out what the scores mean, how they can help you stay on track for college, and how to use them to personalize your SAT practice.

https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/dates-deadlines SAT Test Dates

http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration.html ACT Test Dates

https://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/Preparing-for-the-ACT.pdfPreparing for the ACT – ACT provides a comprehensive test prep booklet free of charge that contains a full practice test and lots of helpful tips on how to take the ACT.

https://academy.act.org/ 
A FREE personalized online learning tool and test practice program.  It features video lessons, interactive practice questions, full-length practice tests, educational games, and other materials to help you prepare to take the ACT.

http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/your-scores/understanding-your-scores.htmlUnderstanding Your ACT Scores – Helpful information from the ACT website about understanding your ACT scores.

https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/pdf/sat-student-guide.pdfSAT Student Guide – College Board provides a comprehensive test prep booklet free of charge that contains a full practice test and lots of helpful tips on how to take the SAT.

https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/inside-the-test/study-guide-studentsSAT Study Guide – College Board provides an online Study Guide to help you know what to expect on test day.  It also provides practice tips, test-taking strategies, sample questions and more!

https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/practice

https://www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat
SAT / Test Prep / Khan Academy. Khan Academy provides full-length SAT practice tests from College Board and allows you to watch videos on how to work through SAT questions.   

https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/scores/understanding-scoresUnderstanding Your SAT Scores – Helpful information from the College Board website about understanding your SAT scores.

https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/pdf/sat-subject-tests-student-guide.pdf
Getting Ready for the SAT Subject Tests – College Board provides a comprehensive test prep booklet free of charge. 

https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat-subject-tests
About the SAT Subject Tests – Helpful information from the College Board website about the SAT Subject Tests.

https://www.csmd.edu/student-services/testing-services/placement-testing/index.html
College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Placement Test/Accuplacer Practice – The College of Southern Maryland Placement Test will be offered to all seniors who are planning to attend CSM after they graduate from high school.  Seniors are highly encouraged to use these resources to practice for this test.

College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Placement Testing and College Readiness
Find out if you are eligible to be exempt from taking the placement test.

Selective Service is a government agency whose job is to provide untrained manpower for the Armed Forces if there’s a national emergency.

Registering with the Selective Service System when you turn 18 is every man’s duty. In fact, it’s the law.Registering is quick and painless and allows you to stay eligible for school loans, jobs, and job training. It only takes 2 minutes on your smart phone or computer. Go to:

http://www.sss.gov/

HOW TO REGISTER

The easiest and fastest way for a man to register is to register online. A man can also fill out a registration form and send it to the Selective Service System. The form asks for the young man’s full name, address, date of birth, and Social Security Number (if he has one). The form also requires his signature before it is submitted.

Below are options on how to register:

Register Online

Young men may now register online with Selective Service:

http://www.sss.gov/ 

At the Post Office

Selective Service “mail-back” registration forms are available at any U.S. Post Office. A man can fill the form out, sign it (leaving the space for his Social Security Number blank, if he has not yet obtained one*), affix postage, and mail it to Selective Service, without the involvement of the postal clerk. Men living overseas may register at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate office.

*Be sure to provide your Social Security Number to the Selective Service when you do obtain one.

Check Box

Another way a young man can register is to check a box on the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). A man can check “Register Me” on Box #22 of the FAFSA form that authorizes the Department of Education to furnish the Selective Service with the information to register the man.

The NACAC (The National Association for College Admission Counseling) is hosting multiple virtual college fairs. 
Thinking about college? Mark your calendars!

• Connect with hundreds of colleges and universities.
• Live sessions available for students to talk to college representatives.
• Each virtual fair is FREE.
• Students and parents/guardians are welcome to attend as many as they like.
• Sign up to attend their live and interactive Zoom sessions on how to apply, financial aid, student life, and more.
• Watch, learn, and get your questions answered about academics, athletics, diversity, study abroad, and other topics. Juniors and Seniors (and parents/guardians) can sign up now to attend as many of NACAC Virtual College Fairs as you want. To register to participate in this event, see a schedule of what college will be participating, and the times of the college fairs, please click on this link.

Virtual Fairs Welcome Video

NACAC SEPTEMBER VIRTUAL COLLEGE FAIR
Sunday, September 10, 2023, 1:00 p.m.

NACAC OCTOBER VIRTUAL COLLEGE FAIR
Sunday, October 15, 2023, 1:00 p.m.

NACAC  NOVEMBER VIRTUAL COLLEGE FAIR
Sunday, November 12, 2023, 1:00 p.m.

If an in-person tour is not available, colleges usually have virtual tours available. Please check the college's website for information about what types of tours they offer and how you can register for them. Ideally, touring the college campuses you are considering is the best way to find out if a college is for you. However, you may not have the opportunity to personally visit a college campus and...just because you may want to attend a school out of state doesn't mean you have to spring for plane tickets to every university on your Top 10 list. Many of the college websites also provide a virtual tour of their campus...be sure to check it out! To help whittle down the choices, there are also websites where you can find Virtual College Tours. 

You can take a virtual tour at: www.campustours.com OR www.youvisit.com

Charles County Children’s Aid Society: This is a volunteer opportunity for students to give back to the community. Volunteers are needed on a daily basis. You can visit their website at www.childrens-aid-society.org or contact the volunteer coordinator at 301-645-1561.

Charles County Sheriff’s Office TEEN COURT: TEEN COURT is seeking youth volunteers to serve as jurors and prosecution and defense attorneys. Volunteers earn community service hours, gain experience in the legal system, try real court cases, take part in free field trips, and help their community. To find out more about this program including a schedule of Teen Court dates, please visit www.ccso.us/community/youth-outreach and click on TEEN COURT or contact Ms. Sarah Vaughan, Teen Court Coordinator, at 301-609-3916.

Charles County Sheriff’s Office TEEN COURT: TEEN COURT is seeking youth volunteers to serve as jurors and prosecution and defense attorneys. Volunteers earn community service hours, gain experience in the legal system, try real court cases, take part in free field trips and help their community. To find out more about this program contact Ms. Sarah Vaughan, Teen Court Coordinator, at 301-609-3916 or visit www.ccso.us.

Our Place Soup Kitchen Volunteers are needed to sponsor dinners, set up, clean up, and serve the meals. To find out more information about volunteering go to: www.OurPlaceWaldorf.org , call 240-682-2569, or email support@ourplacewaldorf.com.

Spring Dell Center, Inc. Volunteers are needed to assist in many areas that help people with disabilities. For more information go to: www.springdellcenter.org, call 301-934-4561 or 301-870-3758. Volunteer applications available in the Career Center.

Tri-County Youth Services Bureau, Inc.The TCYSB is looking for volunteers to help a young person realize his or her fullest potential. For more information call 301-645-1837 or email info@tcysb.org.

LifeStyles of Maryland Foundation, Inc. Volunteers are needed to help provide services to those who are economically disadvantaged. For more information visit their website at www.lifestylesofmd.org or call 301-609-9900.

Southern Maryland Food Bank: Volunteer opportunities for ages 16+ or 12-15 with an adult. Volunteers work in the Food Pantry stocking, bagging, and distributing food. You can visit their website at https://southernmarylandfoodbank.com/volunteering or contact them at 301-274-0695.

Sagepoint Senior Living Services: Volunteers are needed to assist in several areas to help senior citizens. For more information and to download an application go to: https://www.sagepointcare.org/about-us/volunteering/ or you may contact a Volunteer Services Representative at 301-934-1900.

Spring Dell Center, Inc. Volunteer opportunities for ages 16+ or 12-15 with an adult. Volunteers work in the Food Pantry stocking, bagging, and distributing food. You can visit their website at https://southernmarylandfoodbank.com/volunteering or contact them at 301-274-0695.

Melwood Volunteers are needed to assist in many areas that help individuals of differing abilities. If you are interested in volunteering with Melwood, contact the volunteer coordinator at volunteer@melwood.org or call 301- 599-2724.

Charles County Rotary Interact Club: The Rotary Club is a service organization whose stated purpose is to bring together business and professional leaders in order to provide humanitarian service and to advance goodwill and peace around the world. It is a non-political and non-religious organization open to all. For more information, visit: www.neighborhoodcreativeartscenter.org/rotary-interact or email msgeorgia@neighborhoodcreativeartscenter.org

Humane Society of Charles County, Inc.: The Junior Volunteer Program is set up for those who are under 18. Volunteers are needed for many kinds of work and activities. You can visit their website at www.humanesocietycc.org. For questions, please call 301-645-8181.

Charles County Children’s Aid Society This is a volunteer opportunity for students to give back to the community. Volunteers are needed on a daily basis. You can visit their website at www.childrens-aid-society.org or contact the volunteer coordinator at 301-645-1561.

University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center - Nursing and Healthcare Career Exploration Opportunity: Volunteer Program Teens between the ages of 14 and 17 are exposed to the healthcare environment while deciding if healthcare is the career for them. The program also offers teens an opportunity to serve their community and its residents. Volunteens learn about the hospital setting while assisting staff members and patients. Volunteens spend between 4 and 30 hours each week at the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center over the summer. For more information visit https://www.umms.org/charles/about/volunteer-opportunities. Volunteen Applications are usually accepted beginning April 1st of each year. Please pay attention to the deadline for submitting your application.

VOLUNTEER AT SCHOOL
There are numerous clubs available for you to join at La Plata High School. Many of the clubs participate in several service projects throughout the year that benefit members of our community. Make sure you join at least one of these clubs so you can VOLUNTEER and MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Job Interview Tips for High School Students- Information and tips to help you prepare for a job interview.

• https://www.dllr.state.md.us/labor/wages/empm.shtml Information about how to apply for a work permit.
• http://www.onetonline.org/ Website to help you start your career search!

JOB SEARCH

          *Southern Maryland Job Source- Located at 175 Post Office Road, Waldorf, MD (301-645-8712). 

                                                         Office hours:  8:00 AM - 4:00 PM daily. http://www.dllr.state.md.us/county/smd 

         *Maryland Workforce Exchange-https://mwejobs.maryland.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx

         https://www.careeronestop.org/

         https://www.careerbuilder.com/

          http://www.snagajob.com/

         http://www.indeed.com/

         https://www.glassdoor.com/index.htm 

 

Work Permits – Students ages 14-17 years of age and would like to work, must apply for a work permit online through the Maryland Department of Labor. For more information and to apply online, go to: https://www.dllr.state.md.us/labor/wages/empm.shtml

PLEASE NOTE: YOUR SCHOOL CAN NOT GIVE OUT WORK PERMITS

EVERYONE SHOULD BE SIGNED UP ON XELLO

XELLO – Search for careers!!!
Every Lackey High School student has their own individual XELLO account. XELLO can be accessed through the Clever app on their Office 365 account. XELLO provides a hearty set of features that make college and career planning fun!

Assessments that Build Self-Knowledge

• Students complete interactive career, personality, and learning style assessments to help them better understand their unique interests, skills, and strengths. Each engaging assessment encourages reflection, helping students connect who they are with relevant career options.

Personalized Student Portfolios

• Students personalize their Xello experience by creating a shareable, online portfolio that showcases their interests, skills, and abilities. Profiles are easily updated as students gain new experiences, reflecting who they are every step of the way.

Vibrant Career and College Profiles

• Students explore hundreds of career and college options that align with their assessment results. Engaging content written at a grade 6 level, rich photography, and real-world interviews provide an authentic glimpse into their future and the critical knowledge to make informed decisions and plans

START USING XELLO TODAY to help alleviate the stress of college and career planning!!