GJHS Guidance

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Kids’ Chance of Pennsylvania Scholarship

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 13:48:00 +0000

Kids’ Chance of Pennsylvania Scholarship is available for students who have a parent who have been killed or seriously injured as a result of a work related accident. Please go to info@idschanceofpa.org or call 610-970-9143 for scholarship application and guidelines. Must complete FAFSA to be eligible. Application deadline is April 15, 2010.

The Challenge Program - Spring Announcement

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 13:46:00 +0000

“Spread the news as quick as a flash, The Challenge Program is handing out cash!” Spring is here and the school year is flying by fast. Don’t miss your chance to receive $250.00 at the end of the school year! The Challenge Program is giving out $250.00 checks to sophomores, juniors, and seniors for academic excellence, attendance, academic improvement, and community service. It is not too late to hop on over to your guidance counselor’s office with your completed community service forms for your chance to be presented a $250.00 check at the end of the school year for community service. Happy Spring from The Challenge Program!

Senior Bulletin - Class of 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:37:00 +0000

March 25-28 Musical- “Footloose”- Cochran Auditorium

April 1 Scholarship applications available in B204/E109

April 5-9 Senior T-Shirts on sale in cafeteria during lunches

April 17 Indoor Guard Show

April 30 Last day to turn in scholarship applications in B204/E109

April 19-23 Prom tickets on sale in CAFETERIA before school

May 8 Senior/Junior Prom- Frank J. Pasquerilla Center 6:00pm - 11pm

May 10 Spring Musical Concert- Cochran Auditorium- 7:00pm

May 12 National Honor Society Induction in the Cochran Auditorium & Cafeteria 7:00pm
.
TBA All Sports Award Assembly- Cochran Auditorium- during school hours

May 19 National Technical Honor Society Induction-Cochran Auditorium- 6:00pm

May 21 Baccalaureate Practice 8th pd in auditorium

May 23 Baccalaureate JHS auditorium -6:00pm

TBA Finals 1, 2, 3 (tentative)
Distribution of Caps and Gowns in A119 at TBA

TBA Finals 6, 7, 8 (tentative)
Distribution of Caps and Gowns in A119 TBA

TBA Finals 4, 5 (tentative)
Distribution of Caps and Gowns in A119 TBA

June 2 Academic Awards Assembly- Cochran Auditorium- 6:00pm

June 3 Graduation Practice- 7:30am- report to Trojan Stadium (time may change)
Practice lasts until you GET IT RIGHT!!
Final Distribution of caps of gowns in A119 after practice

June 4 Graduation- Trojan Stadium- 7:00pm / Inclement Weather-Auditorium

Senior Bulletin-Class of 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:35:00 +0000

Senior Bulletin-Class of 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:32:00 +0000

Guidance Information

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:29:00 +0000

1. Students planning to take an AP subject test must sign up with Mr. Chick by Wednesday, 23rd. No alternative date tests will be offered. No tests can be ordered after the 23rd.

2. Seniors planning to major in education may request nomination for a $500 scholarship offered by the local Delta Kappa Gamma Society. See Mr. Chick by March 23.

3. Students interested in an outdoor career such as Forestry, Recreation, the Environment, and Natural Resources, may apply for a free Exploring Careers Outdoors Camp (ECO) with Mr. Chick by March 25th. Students must supply their own transportation.

PSSA

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:27:00 +0000

Greater Johnstown High School will begin its Pennsylvania System of School Assessment during the month of April. Eleventh (11th) graders will be assessed in Reading, Math, Writing and Science.

The assessment windows are as follows:
Reading and Math: April 7th to April 16th, 2010
Writing: April 19th to 23rd, 2010
Science: April 26th to 30th, 2010

Attendance and completion of all PSSA tests is considered a very important component of your child’s education. If for any reason you feel that your child will not be able to complete all testing, (ex. Vacation) please contact Mr. Mulvehill at 814.533.5601 ext. 4001

The Greater Johnstown School District has established a policy requiring students to demonstrate proficiency in reading and math in order to graduate from the high school. It is imperative that your son/daughter give their very best effort on this assessment. Their success on this 11th grade assessment will greatly help them in their senior year as they begin to take college placement and employment tests.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please call us at 533-5601, ext. 4001.

Senior Reminder:

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:26:00 +0000

During the senior year, students must pass all courses taken with a final percentage of not less than 60%. Students scoring less than 60% on any course during their senior will not be eligible for participation in the commencement ceremony unless a waiver is granted by the Principal or Superintendent of Schools.

Scholarship Information

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:22:00 +0000

1. The Johnstown Housing Authority is offering the Harie/Foxco Michael Stefan Memorial Scholarship for residents of Public Housingor if you are in the Housing Choice Voucher Program . Deadline is May 3. Applications are in the Guidance Office.

2. The PA Association of Medical Suppliers offers a scholarship for students who have physical disabilities or who require home medical equipment. Deadline is April 23rd. Applications are in the Guidance Office.

3. The Local Salvation Army offers a competitive scholarship to seniors who demonstrate financial need. Weight is given to students who have demonstrated community service to or through the Salvation Army. Deadline is April 2nd. Applications are in the Guidance Office.

4. The Student View Scholarship Program is available to seniors by completing a survey and application online. Go to www.student-view.com. Deadline to apply is April 22nd.

5. Any student who is a current member of a volunteer fire or EMS association is eligible to apply for the Red Knights International Firefighters Motorcycle Club Scholarship. Applications are available in the guidance office or at www.redknightsmcpa22.com. Deadline is March 27, 2010.

GJCTC Student of the Month

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 20:09:00 +0000

Congratulations to Jodi Tittle for being named GJCTC Student of the Month for February 2010 in her program area of Biotechnology.

Great work Jodi!

Scholarship Opportunity

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:25:00 +0000

The Trojan College Access Center is now accepting applications for the Jacob Fend Scholarship ($4,000). Seniors should pick up the application in the Trojan College Access Center (room A220) between 7:50 am and 2:35pm Monday through Friday. The deadline to return the application is February 26, 2009.

Scholarship Opportunities in the Guidance Office

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:21:00 +0000

1. National Federation of the Blind $1000 Scholarship deadline is March 31, 2010 or go to www.nfbp.org/students.
2. Reminder that the Body By Milk Scholarship deadline is March 5, 2010. Students must complete an application online atbodybymilk.com. Students as well as coaches, parents, relatives and teachers may nominate students.
3. The Kohl’s Kids Who Care Scholarship are taking nominations February 1-March 15, 2010. Visit www.kohlskids.com for official rules and to nominate a young volunteer.

IU-8 Test

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:20:00 +0000

An IU-8 test is scheduled for February 19th at the high school for senior students who need to meet PSSA Reading and Math graduation requirements. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements for the test. If you have any questions regarding the test and/or the need to sign up for the test, contact Mr. Mulvehill at 533-5601 Ext. 4001 in the guidance office as soon as possible.

IU-8 Test Tutoring Session

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:19:00 +0000

After School Live will be conducting a four day tutoring session in Math and Reading for the IU-8 test that will be given on February 19th. The session will start on 2/15/10 from 2:30 to 5:00. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements to sign up for the tutoring session. Any questions contact Jen or Cyndi in After School Live at 533-5601 ext.1330 or Mr. Mulvehill in the guidance office at 533-5601 est. 4001.

GJCTC Applications for 2010-2011

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:17:00 +0000

The Greater Johnstown School District will be accepting applications to the Greater Johnstown Career & Technology Center from February 5th to March 12th, for the 2010-11 school year. Any student interested must obtain an application from Mr. Mulvehill in the guidance office. No other application will be accepted. All applications must be turned in to Mr. Mulvehill by Wednesday March 17th, 2010. Applications received after March 17th, 2010 will not be considered for enrollment. Any questions contact Mr. Mulvehill at 533-5601 Ext. 4001

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 14:58:00 +0000

The ASVAB test will be given on February 9th at 8:00 am. Interested Juniors and/or Seniors wanting to take the test should sign up with Mr. Chick in the Guidance Office. Deadline to sign up is January 29th. The High School Guidance Blog has an excellent explanation of this test.

Scholarship information and applications for the Robert C Byrd Honors Scholarship are available in the guidance office. Application deadline is April 1, 2010. Application Requirements are 3.5 unweighted gpa, top 5% in your class, and SAT scores of 1150 combined in Reading and Math.

There is a Best Buy @15 Scholarship program available to students in grades 9 through 12. Requirements include demonstrated academic achievement and volunteer involvement in your community or work experience to apply. Apply online at www.bestbuy.com/scholarships or www.at15.com.

Scholarship for student planning on attending Penn State University

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 14:52:00 +0000

Greater Johnstown High School students planning to enroll at Penn State University are reminded of the Michael Francis Carey Memorial Scholarship.

Students are eligible for to apply for the scholarship if they meet the requirements as set forth in the scholarship guidelines and have been offered admission to the university. The scholarship is provided in four annual awards of $3750 which amount to a total award of $15,000.

My College QuickStart Available Now

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:59:00 +0000

Dear PSAT/NMSQT® Test-Taker,

My College QuickStart™ for 2009 test-takers is now available. To log in, you'll need a College Board account and your access code (it's printed on your paper score report and score reports will be distributed by your school counselor). Sign in now — it will take less than two minutes.

Start thinking about your future and take the next steps toward college with these powerful features:

My Online Score Report — View your enhanced score report, with test questions, your answers, and the correct answers with answer explanations.

My SAT Study Plan™ — Prepare for the SAT with a personalized plan based on your PSAT/NMSQT performance (includes a free SAT practice test).

My Personality — Take a personality test to learn more about yourself and find majors and careers that fit your strengths and interests.

My College Matches — Get a starter list of colleges (based on your home state and indicated choice of major) to help you begin your search.

My Major & Career Matches — Learn about different majors and careers and see what courses you should take now to be successful later.

View your 2009 PSAT/NMSQT scores and take advantage of everything My College QuickStart has to offer. Log in today.

Scholarships Available - 12/21/09

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:54:00 +0000

The following scholarships are currently available in the GJHS Guidance Office:

1. Edgar Snyder & Associates $2500 essay contest. More information also at www.edgarsnyder.com.

2. Gannon University Scholars of Excellence in Engineering and Computer Science. Call 814-871-5302. Application to Gannon University is required. (Please see Mr. Lucas prior to applying to Gannon, he is alumni and can sign your application, thus waiving the application fee)

3. Johnstown Housing Authority’s Annual Stephen J. Bollinger Memorial Scholarship for $7000 and two more scholarships for $5000 each for Public Housing residents. See your Guidance Counselor for more information.

Also in the Guidance Office

United States Military Academy offers a Summer Leaders Seminar. Strong PSAT scores and the top fifth in your class are requirements to attend.
The University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown will offer two free Financial Aid workshops on Tuesday, January 12 and Tuesday, February 16 from 6:30-8:30 at Pitt’s Living Learning Center. They will also offer two FAFSA Completion Days to assist families in completing the FAFSA online. Reservations for this workshop are required at 814-269-7045.

Selective Service information is available from Mr. Chick, and the Trojan College Access Center. Men reaching their 18th birthday must register. College Financial Aid may be withheld for failure to register. Go to www.sss.gov to register online.

Recruiting and College Planning

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:32:00 +0000

The following sites maybe found useful for students seeking information regarding college entrance exams, financial aid, and/or collegiate athletics. Please feel free to contact the Guidance Office at Greater Johnstown High School with any questions you might have.

SAT Information
The SAT is America's most popular college entrance exam.
http://www.collegeboard.com

ACT Information
The ACT is America's most widely accepted college entrance exam.
http://www.act.org

NCAA Clearinghouse
This site will provide you with information about initial-eligibility at NCAA Division I and II member colleges and universities.
https://web1.ncaa.org/eligibilitycenter/common/

NCAA Guide for the College Bound Student Athlete
A complete guide for the college bound student athlete from the NCAA President.
http://www.ncaapublications.com/Uploads/PDF/2008-09%20CBSA9c29e699-00f6-48ba-98a9-6456c9b98957.pdf

Guide to the Financial Aid Process
This award-winning site has grown into the most comprehensive annotated collection of information about student financial aid on the web.
http://www.finaid.org

Free Application for Federal Student Aid
The U.S. Department of Education FREE application for Federal student aid web site.
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov

Information on Federal Student Aid
This web site explains student financial aid programs the U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid office administers.
http://tinyurl.com/2hwo8

A Scholarship Search Site (FastWeb)
FastWeb, the Internet's leading scholarship search service, helps students make the decisions that shape their lives.
http://www.fastweb.com

A Scholarship Search Site (CollegeNet)
CollegeNET, Inc. is the world's leading resource for higher education internet transactions. We provide here for your convenience over 1500 customized internet admission applications.
http://www.collegenet.com

The Student-Athlete and College Recruiting
Preparing families for college athletics and the recruiting process.
http://www.dynamitesports.com

Estimated Probability of Competing in Athletics Beyond High School

http://tinyurl.com/67o7y

Division I Recruiting Calendar

http://www.ncaa.org/wps/portal/home?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=/wps/wcm/connect/NCAA/Legislation+and+Governance/Eligibility+and+Recruiting/Recruiting/Recruiting+Calendars/2008-09/2008-09+Division+I+Football+Recruiting+Calendar

Division I-AA Intercollegiate Athletics

http://tinyurl.com/66r42

Ivy League Intercollegiate Athletics (Div I-AA)

http://tinyurl.com/6bczu

Patriot League Intercollegiate Athletics (Div I-AA)

http://tinyurl.com/5vkab

Atlantic Ten Conference (Div I-AA)

http://tinyurl.com/4q7ny

Division II Intercollegiate Athletics

http://tinyurl.com/3r5se

Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (Div II)

http://www.psacsports.org

Division III Intercollegiate Athletics

http://tinyurl.com/46v4x

Middle Atlantic Conference (Div III)

http://tinyurl.com/5zkhh

National Junior College Athletic Association

http://tinyurl.com/53jyh

Financial Aid

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:05:00 +0000

Parents and students are invited to explore two federal government websites for free resources. They are www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov and www.edpub.gov for financial aid information, college searches, and time- lines for searching, planning, and completing applications as related to student post secondary education.

December Scholarship Information

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:03:00 +0000

The following scholarship information is available from Mr. Chick in the Guidance Office.
1. Any students who have parents working as members of the PA Association of Community Bankers. Additional information is available by calling 1-800-443-5076.
2. Students planning to attend Gannon University to study either engineering or computer sciences.
3. PSECU affiliated families, as well as most state employees and National Guard members and their families. Deadline is December 24th. Go to psecu.com/scholarships for more information.
4. The American Legion offers scholarship information at www.legion.org/needalift.
5. AXA Achievement Community Scholarship. Go to www.axa-achievement.com
6. Student athletes interested in being nominated for the2010 Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year (SAMMY) Award. Additionally all senior athletes can apply at bodybymilk.com.
7. A Masonic Scholarship Resource Guide as well as application information is available in the
Guidance Office or by going to www.pmyf.org
8. Students residing in Public Housing are eligible for three scholarships. Deadline is January 29, 2009.

Also information to study abroad during the 2010-11 school year is available in the Guidance Office.

Testing Descriptions

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:49:00 +0000

4Sight Testing
The 4Sight Reading and Math assessments are designed to resemble the Grade 11 Pennsylvania system of School Assessments (PSSA). Two basic types of data are retrieved from the 4sight assessments, an estimate of a student's performance and diagnostic data in various sub-skills or objectives. The formative data provided from these benchmarks allows the opportunity to monitor student achievement progress over the course of the a school year, making adjustments to instruction and professional development when needed.

Commonly asked questions:

1. What are PA 4Sight Benchmark Assessments?

4Sight Benchmark Assessments are quarterly benchmark assessments in Reading and Math for grades 3 to 11. 4Sight mirrors the blueprint of the PSSA and provides an estimate of student performance on the PSSA. 4Sight provides diagnostic information on PA Standards and specific sub-skills to guide classroom instruction and professional development efforts.

2. Who should take the 4Sight Benchmark Assessments?

Any student who will be taking the PSSA.

3. What is the design of the 4Sight Benchmark Assessments for Grades 9-11?

All 4Sight Benchmark Assessments for grades 9-11 are based on the Grade 11 PSSA.
Four different forms of the tests are provided throughout the year for each grade level.
The four forms are repeated at each grade level in Reading. (i.e Grade 9 Test 1, Grade 10 Test1, Grade 11 Test 1 are the same form, but open-response items are all different.)
There are four parallel forms in Mathematics per grade level. All secondary tests (12different forms) cover the same content, changing only quantities and examples from test to test.
For more information regarding the 4 Sight test : Contact your child’s guidance counselor

Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)

When is the best time to take the SAT/PSAT test?
Although, the best time to take the test will vary based on the student's, need's, desire, and time frame for future education, students should take the SAT Reasoning Test by May or June of the their junior year. Students could start preparing for the test as early as the summer before their junior year, but, should start no later than mid-February of their Junior year.

What is the difference between the SAT and Subject Tests?
The SAT is a three-hour test that measures verbal and mathematical skills. SAT scores are used for college admission purposes because the test predicts college success. The Subject Tests are one-hour, primarily multiple-choice tests in specific subjects. Subject Tests measure knowledge or skills in a particular subject and your ability to apply that knowledge.

How many times can I take the test?
You can take the test as many times as you want. Your score report shows your current test score, in addition to scores for up to six SAT and six Subject Tests administrations.

Which tests should I take?
To find out which test(s) you should take, contact the colleges you are interested in attending. Most colleges require the SAT I for admission and many other schools require both the SAT and Subject Test tests while others allow you to chose which tests you take. It's best to check directly with the school of your choice.

Who develops the questions?
Test development committees comprised of educators and subject-matter experts determine the test specifications and types of questions and topics that will be covered in the test.

Why do some of the questions seem "Tricky"?
The test questions are not designed to be tricky. Some questions are difficult that require careful attention and analysis. Some answers may look correct at first, but, after careful thinking are found to be incorrect.

What is the Perfect SAT Score?
The highest possible SAT score is 2400.

Are there bad SAT Scores?
Technically, there are no bad scores, but, there are colleges that may require a minimum SAT score.
For More Information regarding the SAT go to:
www.collegeboard.com/parents

PSSA TESTING

The annual Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) is a standards based criterion-referenced assessment used to measure a student's attainment of the academic standards while also determining the degree to which school programs enable students to attain proficiency of the standards. Every Pennsylvania student in grades 3 through 8 and grade 11 is assessed in reading and math. Every Pennsylvania student in grades 5, 8 and 11 is assessed in writing.
In 1999, Pennsylvania adopted academic standards for Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening and Mathematics. These standards identify what a student should know and be able to do at varying grade levels. School districts possess the freedom to design curriculum and instruction to ensure that students meet or exceed the standards' expectations. Scoring levels are as follows:

Advanced
The Advanced Level reflects superior academic performance. Advanced work indicates an in-depth understanding and exemplary display of the skills included in the Pennsylvania Academic Content Standards.

Proficient
The Proficient Level reflects satisfactory academic performance. Proficient work indicates a solid understanding and adequate display of the skills included in the Pennsylvania Academic Content Standards.

Basic
The Basic Level reflects marginal academic performance. Basic work indicates a partial understanding and limited display of the skills included in the Pennsylvania Academic Content Standards. This work is approaching satisfactory performance, but has not been reached. There is a need for additional instructional opportunities and/or increased student academic commitment to achieve the Proficient Level.

Below Basic
The Below Basic Level reflects inadequate academic performance. Below Basic work indicates little understanding and minimal display of the skills included in the Pennsylvania Academic Content Standards. There is a major need for additional instructional opportunities and/or increased student academic commitment to achieve the Proficient Level.

PASA TESTING

The Pennsylvania Alternate System of Assessment (PASA) is a statewide alternate assessment designed for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities. Specifically, it is intended for those who are unable to participate meaningfully in the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) even with accommodations. By administering the PASA to students with severe disabilities, schools achieve compliance with federal laws and the Pennsylvania School Code that require that all students participate in the statewide accountability system.
The PASA is an individually administered test given each spring to students by their teacher or another certified Test Administrator who knows the student well. Test administration can be adapted so that even students with the most severe disabilities can participate in the assessment and receive a score. The test, administered to students in the equivalent of grades 3 through 8 and 11, consists of 25 test items related to reading standards; 25 test items related to math standards; and, for students in grades 4, 8, and 11, approximately 25 test items related to science standards. Each test item represents an authentic, relevant, and age-appropriate skill related to reading, mathematics, or science. There are three levels of difficulty for each content area. Level A contains the least complex reading-, math-, or science-related skills. Level B consists of intermediate skills, and Level C consists of the most complex skills. Like the PSSA, the PASA is designed to take a snapshot of a student's typical performance on a small sample of academic skills derived from the PA Academic Standards.

Student performance is recorded via video or narrative notes and submitted for scoring to the contractor at the University of Pittsburgh. Teams of scorers (comprised of practicing teachers, administrative school personnel, and college/university faculty) are trained to use a scoring rubric to evaluate student performance. Once scoring has been completed, aggregated results are submitted to the state for inclusion with scores from the PSSA. In addition, PASA reports are generated at the state, home district, service provider, and student levels.

For more information regarding the PSSA /PASA go to:
Pennsylvania Department of Education
Division of Assessment
333 Market Street, 8th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17126
Voice: (717) 787-4234
Fax: (717) 783-6642
Email: 00testing@psupen.psu.edu
www.education.state.pa.us

ASVAB

The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is one of the most widely used, multiple-aptitude tests in the world, developed and maintained by the Department of Defense. Over half of all high schools nationwide administer the ASVAB test to students in grades 10, 11, and 12 (sophomores cannot use their scores for enlistment eligibility). Students may also take the test at another school or through a recruiter and may retake the test at any time.
The ASVAB consists of the following eight individual tests.
General Science
Arithmetic Reasoning
Word Knowledge
Paragraph Comprehension
Mathematics Knowledge
Electronics Information
Auto and Shop Information
Mechanical Comprehension
Students are provided with scores on each of these individual tests and three Career Exploration Score composites: Verbal Skills, Math Skills, and Science and Technical Skills. The battery takes approximately three hours to complete and test results are returned to schools in about two weeks.
The Military uses students' ASVAB scores to identify the occupations that best suit their abilities. Junior, senior, and postsecondary school students can use their ASVAB scores for enlistment for up to two years after taking the test.
For More Information regarding the ASVAB go to:
www.military.com

ACT

The ACT® test assesses high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work.
The multiple-choice tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science.
The Writing Test, which is optional, measures skill in planning and writing a short essay.

How much does it cost to take the ACT?
The 2009–2010 basic registration fee is $32.00, which includes sending score reports to up to four college choices. The basic registration fee for the ACT Plus Writing is $47.00.

When are the test dates?
In the 50 United States, the ACT is administered on six national test dates: in September, October, December, February, April, and June.

How do students benefit from taking the ACT?
The ACT is universally accepted for college admission.
The ACT is curriculum-based. The ACT is not an aptitude or an IQ test. Instead, the questions on the ACT are directly related to what students have learned in high school courses in English, mathematics, and science. Because the ACT tests are based on what is taught in the high school curriculum, students are generally more comfortable with the ACT than they are with traditional aptitude tests or tests with narrower content.
The ACT is more than a test. The ACT also provides test takers with a unique interest inventory that provides valuable information for career and educational planning and a student profile section that provides a comprehensive profile of a student's work in high school and his or her future plans.
The ACT is a good value. As a private, not-for-profit organization governed by educators, ACT is committed to providing services at the lowest possible cost. Accordingly, the ACT provides a comprehensive package of educational assessment and career planning services for college-bound students at a fee that is lower than the fee for the competing admission test.

How often can students take the ACT?
A student may take the ACT no more than twelve (12) times total and only once per national test date. Many students take the test twice, once as a junior and again as a senior.
Does it help to take the ACT more than once?
ACT research shows that of the students who took the ACT more than once:
55% increased their composite score on the retest
22% had no change in their composite score on the retest
23% decreased their composite score on the retest

For More Information regarding the ACT go to:
www.actstudent.org

AP EXAM

Are you ready for a unique learning experience that will help you succeed in college? Each year, students around the world who want to learn and achieve at the highest level become AP students. Through AP's college-level courses and exams, you can earn college credit and advanced placement, stand out in the admissions process, and learn from some of the most skilled, dedicated, and inspiring teachers in the world.

Why Participate?
With more than 30 courses and exams across multiple subject areas, AP offers something for everyone. Here are just a few reasons to sign up:
Earn College Credit and Advanced Placement
Receive recognition from more than 3,600 colleges and universities that annually receive AP Exam scores. Over 90% of 4-year colleges in the U.S. provide credit and/or advanced placement for qualifying scores.
Have time to move into upper-level courses in your field of interest, pursue a double major, or study abroad.
Design a college experience that suits you and gives you the flexibility to get the most out of your college years.
Stand Out in the College Admissions Process
Demonstrate your maturity and readiness for college.
Show your willingness to take the most rigorous courses available to you.
Emphasize your commitment to academic excellence.
Gain Skills that Will Help You Succeed in College
Get a head start on college-level work.
Improve your writing skills and sharpen your problem-solving techniques.
Develop the study habits necessary for tackling rigorous course work.
Broaden Your Intellectual Horizons
Be part of a community of students and educators who are passionate, curious, and committed to academic excellence
Engage in intense discussions, solve problems collaboratively, and learn to write clearly and persuasively.
Take courses that are developed by leading professors to reflect the level of learning happening at colleges throughout the country

How Do I Enroll?
Once you've decided to take the AP challenge it's easy to enroll.
Talk to an AP teacher or the AP Coordinator at your school about the course you want to take. Discuss the course's workload and any preparation you might need.
If you are a homeschooled student or attend a school that doesn't offer AP, you can still participate. Each year hundreds of students participate through independent study. Some states even sponsor online AP courses.

For More Information regarding the A/P Exam go to:
www.CollegeBoard.com

NOCTI

NOCTI student assessments are categorized as “Job Ready" assessments. Job Ready assessments measure the skills of an entry-level worker or an individual who has completed course work in a secondary or post-secondary career and technical program. NOCTI assessments allow students to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and talents within their chosen occupational program and NOCTI’s score reports provide valuable data for program improvement and accountability requirements.
Student (Job Ready) assessments are developed using business and industry standards and most include both multiple choice and performance components. Multiple choice assessments can be administered in traditional paper/pencil format or through NOCTI’s online testing system.
For More Information regarding the NOCTI Exam go to:
www.NOCTI.org

Senior Graduation Requirement

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Lucas) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:45:00 +0000

Students must score proficient or advanced on the PSSA test or a school board approved alternate assessment, to be eligible for graduation. The IU-8 test for Reading and Math is scheduled for Friday January 15th, 2010 at 8:00 in the High School Library. The test is an approved alternate assessment for seniors who did not score proficient or advanced on the PSSA test. To help students prepare for the test, After School Live will be holding tutoring classes on 1/11 thru 1/14 2010.

If you have any questions contact Mr. Mulvehill at 533-5601 Ext. 4001.