Bulloch Academy

Welcome to the Upper School ! Things are just a little bit different down on the "high-school hall." Classes are shorter than what you're used to and the pace is quicker. You're growing up and you have to learn to pick up the pace. But, things aren't all bad. You have more of a choice of clubs and varsity sports you can participate in. The teachers are different but still pretty cool. But remember, every grade you make, every discipline form you get now goes on something call your "High School Transcript" and that is what helps determine where you can or can't go to college..

A Planning List for Parents of Ninth Graders

1. Create a four-year high school plan. Once your child is settled into ninth grade, introduce the idea of preparing an overall plan for high school that relates to his/her goals.
*Make sure you and your child know what high school courses are required by colleges, and that your child’s ninth grade courses are on the right track.
*Map out when these courses should be taken. (See Table below).
*Familiarize yourself with the various levels of courses offered by your child’s school.

2. Start thinking about careers. Encourage your child to develop a tentative career goal. Of course it will change – often – but it’s the thought process that counts.

*Help your child to identify interests – likes and dislikes – not just in academics but in all areas. This will help your child focus on goals.
*Encourage your child to discuss career options with others, such as the school counselor, teachers, recent college graduates who are working, professionals in the community, etc.

3. Suggest extracurricular activities. Encourage your child to actively take part in a sport, school club, music or drama group, or community volunteer activity.

*Remember that colleges would rather see real involvement in one activity than a loose connection to several activities.
* If your child may want to play sports in college, research the National College Athletic Association eligibility requirements. The NCAA requires completion of certain core courses you can find the specifics at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net.

4. Meet with the school counselor. Your school counselor knows how to help your child get the most out of high school. Make sure your child has an opportunity during the school year to discuss post high school plans with the school counselor.

5. Save for college. It’s still not too late to start a college savings plan. If you have not already. Every little bit helps!

*Investigate state financial aid programs and 529 plans.

6. Obtain a Social Security number for your child if you don’t already have one. This is often required for applications, testing, scholarships, and other opportunities.

DEPARTMENT