BHS Parent/Student Newsletter
November 2019
2019-2020 Counseling Office Personnel
- Christine Bryan, Counseling Dept. Chair, Class of 2020
- Jackie Wilder, Class of 2021
- Marcus Lyons, Class of 2022
- Paige Swanson, Class of 2023
- Kim Garrott, Graduation Coach
- Marina Sadler, Counseling Registar
- Carole Kasbee, Counseling Clerk
Website: https://bhs.rcschools.net/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=546786&type=d&pREC_ID=1285475
Phone: 615.904.3850
Twitter: @blazecounseling
November Heart Healthy Message
As the weather changes, how about some healthy new eating habits, too? Eat Smart Month is the perfect time to start. Nutrition Tips: Deeply colored fruits and vegetables like spinach, carrots, peaches and berries tend to be higher in vitamins and minerals than others, such as potatoes and corn. The extra calories in sugary drinks can not only pack on the pounds, but they usually don’t provide important nutrients. Reduce sodium by cutting back on the salty six: breads and rolls, cold cuts and cured meats, pizza, poultry, soup, and sandwiches.
2020 Governors Schools
Here is a list of the 2020 Governor's Schools with a link to the application. The location and date of each is listed also. Applications should be returned to Mrs. Gregory by November 22, in order to meet the following postmark deadlines: December 1, 2019 is the deadline for ALL BUT the Agricultural Sciences - it is December 13, 2019.
Agricultural Sciences (Application) University of Tennessee Martin May 30 – June 26, 2020
Arts (Application) Middle Tennessee State University June 6 – June 27, 2020
Business, Innovation & Technology (Application) Tennessee Technological University
May 31 – June 27, 2020
Computational Physics (Application) Austin Peay State University June 7 – June 26, 2020
Emerging Technologies (Application) Tennessee Technological University May 31 – June 27, 2020
Humanities (Application) University of Tennessee Martin May 31 – June 26, 2020
Integration of Biological & Statistical Sciences (Application) East Tennessee State University
May 24 – June 26, 2020
International Studies (Application) University of Memphis May 30 – June 27, 2020
Prospective Teachers (Application) University of Tennessee Chattanooga
May 19 – June 204, 2020
Sciences & Engineering (Application) University of Tennessee Knoxville: May 31 – June 27, 2020
Scientific Exploration of Tennessee Heritage (Application) East Tennessee State University
May 24 – June 26, 2020
Applications are now available. Here is a link to the frequently asked questions page: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/students/gov_sch/2020approved_gov_schools_faq.pdf
See Mrs. Gregory in the Spectrum Office for more information.
6 Ways to Set Some Awesome Goals
Now that Q1 is over, the time is now to set some realistic goals for Q2.
- Break your goal into smaller tasks or action steps. These smaller steps make progress on the goal more manageable and give you a sense of accomplishment as you move closer to your goal.
- Make goals with others (friends, family members, coworkers). If other people know about your goals or share the same goals, you create accountability for yourself.
- Anticipate possible challenges. Obstacles and setbacks are part of life. For each of your goals, try to anticipate some of the challenges you may face. Generate a list of resources that might help you overcome these challenges.
- Visualize your achievement. What will completing your goal feel like? Visualizing your accomplishments can help motivate you to make progress toward your goal.
- Reward yourself. Having an incentive can be a fun way to motivate you to work hard to achieve your goal.
- Manage your time. Use time management tools to help you organize your tasks, set aside time to work towards your goal, and track your progress.
COLLEGE VISITS - coming to a Bistro near you!
Nov. 5th - Maryville during Impact
Nov. 6th - MTSU during Impact
See Mrs. Bryan or Mrs. Wilder for an Impact Pass if you would like to visit with either of the above colleges during Impact.
November 25th - Austin Peay will be set up OUTSIDE THE CAFETERIA DURING LUNCH - NO PASS NEEDED for this!!
FREE DEBT-FREE EVENT OFFERED TO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Ramsey Solutions announced a brand-new free event dedicated to high school students. Bestselling author Anthony O’Neal will give students a plan for starting college and graduating debt-free, while nationally syndicated radio host Ken Coleman will students identify their top skills and passions. The event is scheduled for Nov. 12 and 13 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. at the Franklin Theatre in Franklin, Tennessee.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
ACT PRACTICE RESOURCES
BCA Informational Meeting
Monday, Dec 2, 2019, 06:00 PM
Blackman High School, Blaze Drive, Murfreesboro, TN, USA
EPSO (Early Postsecondary Opportunities)
Blackman High offers the following EPSOs:
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses (Cost: $94 per exam)
- Dual Enrollment (DE) Courses (Uses the DE Grant to pay tuition)
- Industry Certification (IC) (Cost varies)
- Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) (Free to all students)
- CLEP (Cost - Exam Fee)
- Local Dual Credit (LDC) (Cost: Exam Fee)
For more detailed description and a list of current EPSOs, visit www.bhs.schools.net for the 2019-29 course catalog.
Graduation Requirements
English = 4 credits
Math = 4 credits
Science = 3 credits
Social Studies = 2 credits
Government/Economics = 1 credit
Fine Art = 1 credit
Personal Finance = ½ credit
Wellness = 1 ½ credit
Foreign Language = 2 credits
Elective focus (pathway) = 3 credits
Elective = 1 credit
*A total of 23 credits are needed for graduation.
Graduating with Honors and Distinction
To graduate with honors students must meet the following ACT benchmarks:
English: 18
Math: 22
Reading: 22
Science: 23
Distinction
To graduate with distinction students must attain a 3.0 GPA and meet one of the following criteria:
- Participate in at least one Governor’s School
- Participate in one of the TN’s all State musical organizations
- Be selected as a National Merit Finalist or Semi-Finalist
- Attain a composite score of 31 or higher on the ACT
- Attain a score of 3 or higher on at least 2 Advanced Placement Exams
- Earn 12 or more semester hours of transcripted postsecondary credit
- Earn a nationally recognized industry certification
*Seniors must let their counselor know by December if they are graduating with distinction.
Attendance Matters!
Check your grades online!
Click the Skyward link at the top of the BHS or RCS homepage.
Parents: Use the login information that you were emailed earlier in the year. If you did not receive an email, contact your child's grade level counselor or the attendance office to get your login information.
Blackman Collegiate Academy Symposium
Thursday, Dec 12, 2019, 06:30 PM
BHS Cafeteria
Launch My Career
- Need help searching for colleges, majors, and jobs while evaluating salaries and what matches your goals?
- Launch My Career makes it possible to help you cut through what can be confusing and overwhelming information.
- Click here to check out the Launch My Career TN website and use their tools to help you learn more about your future career!
Freshman Orientation - Class of 2024
Thursday, Mar 12, 2020, 06:00 PM
Blackman High School Main Gym
Office Staff supporting College Planning Week
Football Homecoming 2019
Rockin the 80s Look
Bringing back the 90s
Peace Out
FOCUS ON FRESHMEN (CLASS OF 2023)
Freshman year is a crucial time in your life. You have finally grown out of middle school, and it is now time to hang with the big kids. These simple tips will help you get through that oh-so-stressful freshman year, and maybe even have some fun.
1. Make good first impressions, especially on teachers. The impressions you make during the first week of school affect your entire high school career...with most teachers, if they get it in their heads that you're a good student early you won half the battle. Be sure to be on time for every class during this short period of judgment. When all of your teachers hand you those syllabus papers to get signed, try to bring it back the next day. (Even though it is easy to forget, TRY.) In regards to your fellow classmates; be yourself. It is important to earn the respect and companionship of your peers early on in the school year.
2. Find a group of people to sit with at lunch – as soon as possible. The lunch “break” that high-schoolers are allowed is, at first, one of the most stressful experiences of the beginning of the year. If you spot some of your middle school friends gathering together at a table, join in. Be aware, though, that these seating arrangements are often permanent. Pick your table wisely.
3. Find someone who you can follow to class. If Ashley or Josh are in both your first and second periods, then he/she can help you find your way to your next class. High Schools are big and scary at first, so it can’t hurt to have your own personal tour guide. If your classmate is as lost as you are, at least you won’t be lost alone.
4. Do not procrastinate. The sooner you get things done, the more time you will have to do the things you like to do. No matter how much you would love to plop down in front of the T.V. after a hard day, try to get to work as soon as possible.
5. You need your friends for survival. Do not let go. Friends are your lifejackets in the shipwreck of high school -- without them, you could sink. Everyone needs someone to lean on and someone who cares. Stick with those who know you best and like you for who you are.
6. Accept change. Accept change in your friends. Accept change in your school. Accept change in your teachers. Accept change in yourself. High school is a huge part of your life, and from here on out, there’s no going back. Do not try to keep things from changing, because change is good. Watch people around you become who they are going to be.
7. Study! Many people find flashcards helpful studying tools. Flashcards are one of the most efficient ways of studying because by making them, you have already begun to study. Writing down the questions and answers on note cards helps the information stick in your brain just long enough to take that pesky midterm.
8. Be involved in some sort of extracurricular activity. Fall sports that begin before school are always a plus because they allow you to meet new people and make new friends before school even begins. High school is a great time to figure out what you are interested in, and follow your interests through clubs and sports. These activities are also a crucial part of your college application. As more and more people apply to colleges every year, colleges become more and more focused on the smaller details, such as your extracurricular activities.
9. Eat lunch. Whether you eat in the cafeteria or bring your lunch your brain/body needs energy to perform.
Tips
* Relax! Try not to get yourself too worked up about that test you bombed or the homework you left in your printer at home.
* Use your locker. Not only do you look like a hunchback, toting all of your books around on your back, but it can’t be very comfortable either. Find which times of the day are best for you to go to your locker.
* You've heard it a million times, but actually do it! Be Yourself! Make sure that people like you for who you are, rather than who you are pretending to be.
* Enjoy yourself! Freshman year can be so much fun if you choose to make it so.
Come say hi and introduce yourself!!
#GoBlaze
Mrs. Swanson
SOMETHING FOR SOPHOMORES (CLASS OF 2022)
There is so much to look forward to this year. You’re no longer the youngest - you guys know your way around the campus, what to expect but have some time before graduation. In fact you guys are right in the middle- like in Oreos- the best part if you ask us!!
Sophomore year might best be described as a year of opportunity and here are some nuggets of advice...
1. Be Present- don’t waste this year waiting for the next. Make the most of what each day brings you.
2. Challenge yourselves- set goals and become disciplined. Virtues are born out of habits and habits come from being more disciplined.
3. Get out there and be involved- if you want to try new things, now is the time. Go out for a sport. Join a club. Audition for a production. Any and all of these activities will not only expand your social circle and introduce you to a wider pool of friends but each experience (whether or not you make a team or get the part) will develop your character in ways you cannot do sitting on the couch.
4. Stay on top of your academics- be sure to use your agenda books, talk to your teachers, set time to review/study each night, monitor your grades on INow weekly if not more and aim to have a stellar attendance record.
5. Start Now- it’s never too early to start getting ready for college. Use a calendar to assist with organization and time management. Get involved in extra-curricular activities that you enjoy- we have something for everyone.
6. Check with 3 potential colleges websites for entrance requirements.
7. Start keeping a resume of your accomplishments, service hours, etc. Many colleges and scholarship applications ask for evidence for involvement and leadership.
8. Be proactive- We are here to help you. If you need anything at all just come by the counseling office, our doors are always open.
Finally, Don’t forget to laugh - the word “sophomore” literally means “wise fool.” If you’re smart enough to admit you don’t know it all – and to laugh at yourself often – this year will be one of your best.
Come by anytime!
Mr. Lyons
JUST FOR JUNIORS (CLASS OF 2021)
Junior year may be classified as one of the toughest years, but it is also one of those middle years lost between the excitement of starting high school and the anticipation of that glamorous senior year. In the hierarchy of importance, the junior year is near the top. Here are some key points for you to focus on throughout this year:
1. Classes and Grades:
- Be sure you are on track to graduate
- Challenge yourself without overloading
- Maybe your grades were the best the first two years – IT’S NOT TOO LATE – kick it in gear and finish strong – colleges will notice this.
- Build relationships with teachers – you will need them next year for recommendation letters, etc.
2. Standardized Tests:
- ACT: is one of the basic standardized tests that many colleges use as part of their admission criteria. On March 17, 2020, juniors will test here at BHS (see ACT section for other test dates)
- SAT: Another admission test required by some of the highly competitive colleges. Check college websites to see which admission test they prefer.
- EOC: End-of-Course test are given in English III, Math II & III and US History and will count 25% of your final grade.
- AP Exams: designed to test your knowledge of the subject at college level, with the results recommending that you receive advanced placement or college credit for the subject. Most colleges and universities across the U.S. recognize these exams.
3. College Planning:
- This is the time to get organized for college planning - research online, visit with representatives at your school and college fairs; try to narrow your list to 10-15 by the end of your junior year.
- Relax, take your time and research important information from each school such as: majors and minors, academic quality and ranking, accreditation, job and graduate-school placement rates, cost, and financial aid.
- Develop a file system so that the information from the colleges on your short list is easy to find when you need it.
4. Career Research:
- Your career choice could have a big impact on your list of colleges to consider, so it's important to narrow this list as well.
- Research, take some career assessment tests, talk with family, and evaluate your likes and dislikes.
- If you end the self-reflection with a concrete career concept, you can begin to narrow your college list possibilities.
- If, however, you still aren't sure, that's ok too. You may want to consider universities that offer a wider variety of majors/minors.
- Remember, this research is just the start - you don't have to have it all figured out at this stage of the game but the more research and self-reflection you do, the better off you will be.
5. Start a "Brag Sheet":
- Document, Document, and Document some more!!
- Write down any and all of your educational experiences and accomplishments
- List all high school coursework; awards and honors, both academic and athletic; and any other achievements.
- Next, list any and all work experiences, including volunteering or community service, and describe those experiences using action verbs.
- Showcase any leadership positions you have held. Also include hobbies and interests.
- Developing a resume will be a much less difficult task once you have this brag sheet ready.
Finally, remember that the more you accomplish in your junior year, the more you can relax and enjoy your senior year!!
Class of 2020 Rocks!!!
Mrs. Wilder :)
Spotlight on Seniors (CLASS OF 2020)
Just a few things for November...
• If you’ve decided to apply early admission to a particular school, finalize and send whichever early decision or early action applications are due this month.
• Finalize your application essays.
You've been working tirelessly on your college essays for quite some time (hopefully). It's time to finalize them. Allow some extra eyes to look over them for the last time - your parents, teachers or counselors would make great proofreaders. Once they give your essay one last look, take their feedback into account but, remember, your essay should be yours. Your words. Your ultimate vision. As long as you are happy with the end product, that's what matters - it should ultimately reflect one thing: you.• Send your official transcripts –
All colleges you’re applying to will require your official high school transcripts, so make sure you fill out a transcript request form in the Counseling Office.
• Double check that testing companies have sent your scores directly to the colleges to which you are applying.
There’s no point in taking standardized tests if the schools you are applying to don’t know about it! Double check that your ducks are in a row and that your scores have been sent to all of the schools you are applying to. Also, make sure you’ve checked beforehand that you’ve taken the right standardized tests for each college you’re applying since different colleges require different exams.• If necessary, register to take or retake the SAT, SAT Subject Tests or ACT.
Do this AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if this is still on your to do list!• It’s time to finalize your college list.
Using all of the information you’ve gathered from your college visits, interviews with students and faculty, and your own independent research, it’s time to decide which schools you will be submitting applications to. Your number should fall somewhere between five and eight colleges. Keep in mind that it is a good idea to apply to schools that you feel are a little bit more difficult (your reach schools) as well as schools that you’re sure you’ll get into (your safety schools). Once you have decided on your list, go over it with your guidance counselor, teachers, and parents about your decisions.• Keep track of ALL deadlines.
This is the year of deadlines. And, since you will be filling out all sorts of forms this year, it’s important to know what form is due when. Create a “deadline calendar” showing the application deadlines for admission, financial aid and scholarships so that you’ll never miss a date.• Start preparing your application materials and, when everything is in order, apply!
After you’ve decided which schools you’re going to apply to, the only thing left to do is apply! Note all instructions, criteria and deadlines so that your application is fully completed. It’s also a great idea to have a parent, counselor or teacher look over your application to make sure there aren't any errors. Ensure you follow all instructions and double check that all other materials have been submitted as well: recommendation letters, transcripts, test scores, etc. It’s also a great idea to make extra copies before you send them so that you can keep track of where you’ve applied already. Applying before winter break may be a good plan so that you’re not rushing to meet deadlines over the holidays.• Check in with your counselor to ensure you’re on track for admissions requirements, graduation requirements and to discuss financial aid options.
You don’t want any bad surprises at the end of the admissions process or school year! Staying in the loop with your counselor is the best way to make sure you’re on track in all aspects of your academic career.• Start thinking about financial aid.
Now that you know which colleges you’re applying to, you can obtain financial aid applications from those schools. Remember, when it comes to financial aid, it’s important to apply as early as possible! This information can help you to begin applying for financial aid and, ultimately, planning your college budget, taking into account other expenses such as room and board, tuition, books and any other expenses you’re already aware of. Additionally, you should start gathering information that’s required on that FAFSA form, which became available on October 1 - if you haven't already done so. You can learn what you need to fill out the FAFSA on Fastweb, on the FAFSA website or you can talk to your counselor.• Attend financial aid workshops with your parents.
Financial aid is a topic that is confusing for many, if not most, families. Attending a financial aid workshop is a great idea for both you and your parents to gain a better understanding of how to process works and can actually help you maximize your financial aid eligibility, saving you a ton of money.• Make sure you continue to stay on track with your grades and your extracurricular activities.
Colleges will continue to look at what you’ve done in your senior year after you’ve submitted your application, so make sure you stay focused on doing well. Maintain your GPA in your courses and stay committed to any extracurricular activities you’ve been involved with so that your admission is never in jeopardy!• Always continue your scholarship search.
Deadline for Senior Credit Recovery classes
Wednesday, Jan 8, 2020, 03:30 PM
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MTSU
Be sure to apply to MTSU by December 1st to ensure that you don't miss out on great scholarship opportunities.
College Acceptance Pennants
As you complete your college applications and start getting your letters(or emails) of acceptance, be sure to let Ms. Bryan know. We want to celebrate this huge accomplishment! For each college you are accepted to, a mini pennant will be created and will line the glass hallway!
Congratulations to the following seniors on their college acceptances this past month!
Ariana Bennett - Austin Peay, MTSU
Jonathan Burks - Alabama, Ole Miss, MTSU
Alexander Buttram - MTSU
Olivia Carpenter - Alabama, MTSU
Sam Chumney - TTU
Grady Cox - TTU
Andrew Hawkins - ETSU, MTSU
Kyle Kigar - UT Martin, University of Oklahoma
Colby Offutt - Chattanooga State
Malachi King - UTC
Mansi Patel - MTSU
Kaylee P - Cleveland Community College
Shalyn Maynard- Motlow
Kelsi McGregor - MTSU
Kennedy Moore - MTSU
Brennan Reed - Harding
Shamani Salahuddin - MTSU
Gracey Strevel - MTSU
Jayda Summers - UT Martin, MTSU, UTC
Max Tidwell - MTSU
N. Webber - UT Martin
Julian Young - MTSU
Money, Money, Money.... (Scholarship Information)
The key is to APPLY, APPLY, APPLY!
Need Help with College Applications and Scholarships....
TN Promise
FAFSA
Eric Farmer from Tennessee Student Assistance will be at Blackman Thursday, October 17 from 2:30-6:30 pm to help our senior students and parents of seniors complete their FAFSA. The library computer lab has been reserved.
HOPE Scholarship
FAFSA
If you need help, come by the Counseling Office to see Ms. Bryan.
College Visits
Transcript Requests
Colleges and universities will ask that your student send an official transcript when they apply. This is the process they should follow:
- Go to the counseling office and fill out a Transcript Request Form located beside Mrs. Sadler’s desk.
- Pay $2.
- It will be ready to pick up in 3 days or Mrs. Sadler can mail it for you.
Planning to play sports in college?
Graduation Information
Blackman High School Graduation Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
- When is graduation?
Blackman High School’s 2019 Graduation ceremony will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2019 at 7:00 p.m., at Middle Tennessee State University’s Murphy Center
- Do guests have to have tickets in order to attend graduation?
There are no tickets for guests.
- Is my senior limited on the number of guests he/she may invite?
There is no limit to the number of guests a senior may invite.
- Do seniors have to participate in graduation in order to graduate?
No. Participation in graduation is not a requirement for graduating from high school.
- Who do I contact for more information?
Information will be sent home with your senior in November, March, and late April. You may also contact Mr. Weeks, our graduation coordinator, if you need any assistance. His email address is weeksm@rcschools.net or you may leave him a message at (615)904-3850 ext. 22978