BHS Counseling Dept Weekly Update
Week of March 4, 2024
Welcome to March!
This week of 3/4 is a regular 5 school day week.
The next week of 3/11 is a special schedule 5 day school week due to Day of Change happening on Wed 3/13.
See both schedules below.
It is already time for 3rd quarter Progress Reports - likely to be uploaded to student/parent Aspen portals this Wed 3/6 evening. Be sure to check your status in each class and applaud the successes, while developing a plan to improve in the challenging classes.
Quarter 3 Critical Updates for only students who continue to struggle with class grades in the D,E,N ranges will be uploaded to the portals on approximately Wed March 20.
The 3rd quarter ends on April 8.
Current grade 9,10,11 students/families - the time is now for discussions, recommendations, and soon uploading course requests for the 2024-25 school year.
As you and your student prepares for course selection, be ready to access your student or parent portal on Aspen for this information and next steps. Access to the Aspen portal for students MUST be ready to go starting March 19- April 2.
If you do not have access to your Aspen account --->
- Aspen Family Portal Link: Access to your student's attendance, IPRs/grades and schedule.
- Instructions to access the family portal
- Need help with your parent/guardian account? contact the Data Team datateam@psbma.org
What is a Q and a N on a BHS IPR or Report Card?
Thanks to the FAQ from BHS 9th Grade Deans' Niner Newsletter in February for this info!
You may have noticed a Q or an N on your student’s report card.
A Q on a report card warns students about their attendance, so that they don’t “N” out.
An N on the report card stands for “No credit” - a student has missed enough class to earn an N. Please be in touch with your student’s Dean if an N appears on their report card due to excessive or unexcused absences.
For more attendance information and other important rules, please review the top 3 handbook rules to know.
Dates & Events to know-
- This Thurs 3/14/24 -Parents/Caretakers of Students in Grades 9,10,11 - 6:30-7:30pm - College Affordable webinar Gr 9-11- Creating your College Financial Game Plan. To read more about the College Affordable collaboration with the BHS Counseling Dept and allow access to the 3/14 webinar and other important college financial aid resources, be sure to open the flyer below and use the QR code.
As mentioned above, BHS students in Gr 9,10,11 are starting to hear from their teachers about course recommendations for the next school year 2024-25.
**BHS leadership offered webinars to parents at each grade level (9,10,11) about the 2024-25 course selection process last week, including curriculum coordinators and deans about the course selection process. Please check your PTO grade level email newsletters for recordings of these videos.
- **Students are learning more from counselors at grade level zoom webinars in advisories which started last week to current 10th graders. Counselors will hold a webinar for current 9th graders in their advisory this Wed 3/6 and for current 11th graders in advisory on 3/13.
- **The portal for ALL students to check their teacher course recommendations and add needed electives and wellness classes will be open from March 19 - April 2, 2024.
- Parents/Caregivers of Gr 11 students - General Q and A on BHS Post High School Planning resources and info with BHS College Counselor Lenny Libenzon and Counseling Dept Head Darby Neff-Verre this Thurs 3/7 from 8:20-9:15am - Zoom https://psbma-org.zoom.us/j/6174544903?pwd=Q3N6b0daTlR5THFVd2VvT0duTDZ5Zz09 Look in JUNIOR section for more info.
BHS students taking the March 9 SAT at BHS - FIRST DIGITAL SAT DATE!
VERY IMPORTANT - The expectation is for testers to bring their own computer with Bluebook downloaded. Extra laptops will not be provided. BHS students should aim to borrow a PSB Chromebook at least a week before testing so that they can prepare. Please note - BHS will not be using the auditorium for any future SAT digital testing.
PreACT @ BHS will be Saturday March 23. Only offered one time.
The PreACT is a shorter practice version of the ACT college admissions test, normed for sophomores in high school. Juniors can also consider taking this practice ACT.
The PreACT also offers a built-in career interest inventory. The PreACT registration form is attached below. Paper copies of this registration form can also be found in the counseling suites (main building - suite 285 & 22 Tapp - suite 231). DEADLINE TO COMPLETE AND RETURN WITH CHECK is Friday, March 15.
BHS Assistant Head of School reminds everyone....The traffic flow impact at BHS continues!
Thanks to folks who have changed their usual dropoff patterns to accommodate the buses on Tappan for the MBTA! The closure of the MBTA B, C and D lines is still having an effect on BHS for the next week. Shuttle buses from Copley replace all three lines. The D line from Riverside terminates at Brookline Hills/BHS. We will have a large number of buses lining up on Tappan St.
BHS has been working with the Bus Co, the MBTA and BPD to try to make things work smoothly during the shutdown, but we can expect Tappan St. eastbound to Cypress St. to have a large and lengthy back up.
If driving toward BHS, BHS urges you to seek alternate routes as well as alternate locations for drop-off and pick-up of your students. For those dropping off for 115 Greenough we encourage you to drop off on Welland Rd and then depart using Tappan St. westbound toward either Rte. 9 or Beacon St.
For those of you dropping off for 22 Tappan we encourage you to drop off on Davis Ave. or even Gorham Rd. allowing students a short walk across Cypress Field via the crosswalk to get to the 22 building.
Please reference the attached map.
For students applying to summer programs, summer jobs or private schools AND NEEDING A COUNSELOR RECOMMENDATION - Please read!
If a BHS student will need a letter of recommendation/reference for a variety of reasons including summer programs, summer jobs and private schools, their school counselor will support this request. The Guidance Department asks that the student give their child's counselor 2-3 weeks' notice (not including vacations) to fill out forms and/or write a letter of reference.
It is also very important that the student reach out to their counselor to ask for a recommendation or reference letter, separately or along with the parent. The student should plan to schedule a brief appointment with their counselor to discuss what is required.
Thank you for your understanding.
Go to the Brookline High Counseling Dept blog for all of this year's Weekly Updates and suggested resources for career exploration, college research and applications, Naviance plus much more!
Mental Health topics to consider:
Nat'l Eating Disorder Awareness - 2/26-3/2
From the Office Of Women's Health (https://www.womenshealth.gov/nedaw)
- Eating disorders are serious mental and physical health conditions that affect an estimated 28.8 million Americans, or 9% of the total population.
- Eating disorders involve serious changes to regular eating behavior and related thoughts. These changes can include strong concerns or obsessions with food, body, weight, and shape, eating much less than usual, uncontrollable overeating, or harmful repetitive behavior, which may include self-induced vomiting, misusing laxatives or other medicines, fasting, or excessive exercise.
- Eating disorders affect people of all ages, racial and ethnic backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, body shapes, ability levels, and socioeconomic statuses.
- Full recovery from an eating disorder is possible.
Types of Eating Disorders
Common eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Other lesser-known eating disorders and disordered eating conditions include avoidant or restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) , pica , rumination disorder , orthorexia , and other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED) .
People experiencing symptoms of an eating disorder that greatly impact their lives, but do not meet formal criteria for an eating disorder diagnosis are often categorized as having an unspecified feeding or eating disorder (UFED) . People with UFED can and should still access support and treatment.
Eating Disorders and Women’s Health
Eating disorders can harm the body in many ways. Untreated eating disorders can lead to cardiovascular disease, oral health problems, gastrointestinal issues, seizures, brain damage, sleep issues, and bone and muscle loss. Eating disorders can also negatively impact reproductive and maternal health outcomes, leading to miscarriage, low birthweight, complications during pregnancy, and postpartum depression. Eating disorders are associated with higher rates of in anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. It is important to remember that proper diagnosis and treatment can help support individuals to fully recover from eating disorders.
Risk Factors for Eating Disorders
There is no single cause of eating disorders. Risk factors for eating disorders can include biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Some of the most common risk factors include:
- Body dissatisfaction and pressure to fit traditional beauty standards
- Bullying
- Anxiety disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- History of abuse or trauma
- Having a close relative with an eating disorder or mental health condition
- Sexual trauma in childhood
- Food insecurity
- Living with type 1 diabetes
Although some people are at a higher risk for developing eating disorders, not everyone with risk factors will develop an eating disorder, and not everyone with an eating disorder has associated risk factors. Everyone’s experience is unique, and it is important to be honest with healthcare professionals about any associated risk factors so they can help tailor treatment plan to meet each patient’s needs.
Learn More
Office on Women’s Health
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA)
National Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders (NCEED)
National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA)
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD)
National Alliance for Eating Disorders (The Alliance)
Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy, and Action
The Emily Program
Challenge Success / Dr Lisa Damour offer these insights on the EMOTIONAL LIFE OF TEENS
The Challenge Success organization offers some some nuggets of wisdom from a recent student panel with Dr Lisa Damour: Being a teenager today is significantly harder than it was for other generations, and they don’t want to hear us say, “when I was a teenager…” Spare them your stories and listen instead. When in doubt, empathize. And if you must say something, try, “that sounds really tough,” or “that stinks,” and watch how these few words can often be just what they need to hear. Good mental health doesn’t mean being happy all the time. From Dr. Damour’s point of view, we need to help teens understand that being mentally healthy is actually about having the appropriate emotions for the situation – good or bad – and knowing what will help you cope that won’t cause harm to yourself or others. Speaking of social media, is it really hurting our teens? Not necessarily. Silly cat videos, following a favorite band, and connecting online with peers who share interests and identities can be forms of healthy coping. Rather than judging teens for how they use it, let’s partner with them to understand the positives and set healthy boundaries. We all need more sleep, especially teenagers. Prioritizing this basic, yet often overlooked physical need has far-reaching effects on our well-being. Keep technology out of the bedroom and try a time management worksheet to intentionally carve out enough sleep. Model good sleep hygiene by taking care of yourself, too.
Counselor Teams by Grade and Locations through school week:
Just a reminder that BHS counselors are here if a student has questions/concerns or just wants to say hello to their counselor. Students are encouraged to stop by their counselor’s office when not in class. Students can be in touch with their counselor for any questions or concerns – school related, post high school planning related, extracurricular activities related, or life related. If a counselor is not available when a student stops by their office, PLEASE remind them to leave a note or send an email.
We’re here and ready to support EVERY BHS student!
BHS 5 day and 4 day week schedules for 2023-24 + PSB School Year Calendar
Have a question? Have a concern?
Please email Darby Neff-Verre - Coordinator of the BHS Counseling/Guidance Dept - individually for feedback on the Weekly Update.
Thank you!
FAMILIES
Grown and Flown advice - Three Things Parents Should NOT Say to their College-Bound Teens
Grown and Flown advice - Three Things Parents Should NOT Say to their College-Bound Teens - https://grownandflown.com/3-things-parents-should-not-say-college-bound-teens/?
STUDENTS
Lunch Lounge @ BHS starts this Thurs 3/7 @ 317 C during both lunch blocks
Bring your lunch yourself and/or bring a friend....Thurs 3/7 BOTH LUNCHES
Students who would like to have a quiet place to enjoy lunch, meet new people, and have some fun activities can stop by the 317C conference room at the main building during either lunch on Thursdays.
It's a great place to hang out and get work done or get to know some new friends!
Pizza will be offered for students who remain for the entire lunch block!
THIS WEEK AT BHS is SPIRIT WEEK!
The Winter Cheer Team is hosting the annual BHS Spirit Week next week March 4 - March 8. Students will notice some posters at 115 and 22 Tappan. The goal is to infuse some camaraderie and positive energy into our school-wide community.
Like in the past, we are asking students and staff to participate by dressing up for each theme. We are also giving students a gentle reminder to choose school appropriate attire, and appreciate your consistent messaging with this.
Monday March 4: Pajamas + Onesies
Tuesday March 5: Proud to be a Warrior
Wear swag from your favorite BHS club, program or sport!
Wednesday March 6: Class Colors
Blue: 9th & 11th Grades
Red: 10th & 12th Grades
Thursday March 7: Sports Jerseys
Who is your professional, collegiate or high school sports team?
Friday March 8: Summer Vibes
Show us your best vacation, camp or summer job fit!
Massachusetts 4th District - 2024 Congressional Art Competition - Deadline 4/22
High school students living in the Massachusetts 4th District are invited to participate in the 2024 Congressional Art Competition. The competition is sponsored by the Congressional Institute and the Congressional Arts Caucus to promote artistry and creative thought in students around the country. Students are asked to submit one piece of original artwork, which will be judged by a panel of local artists. Please read on for more information about participating in the 2024 Congressional Art Competition.
The categories for artwork include paintings, drawings, collages, prints, mixed media pieces, computer-generated art, and photography. All works must be two-dimensional and no larger than 26 inches high, 26 inches wide, and 4 inches deep, including a frame. Please see the attached Rules for Students and Teachers form for more detailed information.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:
- Deadline: Monday, April 22 at 5:00 PM.
- Drop Off at the Congressman’s District Locations: Students, parents, or teachers can drop off the artwork at any of our district locations:
- Newton Office (29 Crafts Street, Suite 375, Newton, MA 02458)
- Attleboro Office (8 N Main Street, Suite 200, Attleboro, MA 02703)
- Fall River Satellite Location, open on Wednesdays from 10-4 (1 Government Ctr, Office 237B, Fall River, MA 02722)
- Pick Up at Schools: If needed, schools may reach out to Jenna Massoud (contact info below) to arrange for a staff member from the Congressman’s office to pick up all their students’ submissions at the school directly on April 23 or April 24. Please contact Jenna by April 17th if you would like to make these arrangements.
- Students must complete THIS ONLINE FORM, in addition to the attached Student Release Form, if they are submitting artwork for the competition.
JUDGING AND RECEPTION:
A panel of local artists will judge all the works submitted. The winner will be announced at Congressman Auchincloss’ Art Competition Reception. The Reception is being held on Saturday, April 27 from 2:00-3:00pm at the Attleboro Arts Museum (86 Park Street, Attleboro, MA 02703). A formal invitation will follow. The winning student will then be invited to an annual Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. this summer, and their artwork will be displayed in the Capitol for a year.
Important rules and guidelines have been attached to this email. Feel free to reach out to Jenna Massoud or Catarina Pereira in our office at 617-332-3333, or email us with any questions at Jenna.Massoud@mail.house.gov or Catarina.Pereira@mail.house.gov.
BHS Performing Arts Dept shares Audition info
BHS Performing Arts Dept shares Audition info and other opportunities to learn more about PA courses for the 2024-25 school year:
While many BHS music, drama and dance classes have no audition or prerequisite, some do and you can find all audition information and BHS PA class information in our BHS Performing Arts letter, on the BHS Performing Arts Website (bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/performing-arts), and linked on our BHS Friend's of Performing Arts website, www.brooklinefopa.org.
In addition to auditions, we are holding two Open Drama Classes and one Open Dance Class for students who just want to see what a BHS drama or dance class is like.
All auditions and open classes will happen between late February and March 15. We will be sharing audition results with students and families by March 18th in advance of the elective request portal opening on March 19th.
Join the Cypress or be considered for the Journalism I class next year - Applications 2/1-3/9
The Cypress is an independent, school-affiliated publication published monthly in print and updated daily online by the students. The Cypress is an award-winning publication that is distributed in local and international realms and is read by thousands of people.
Applications for the 2024-2025 Journalism I class & The Cypress open Feb. 1 – close March 9 at 11:59pm.
Please apply to be considered for next year’s Journalism I class!
Are you an artist? Submit your artwork to The Brookline Exhibition....
Are you an artist? Submit your artwork to The Brookline Exhibition, a literary and arts magazine, for a chance to win $100 and get your work published! Here is the submission link which is open til April 1st: https://forms.gle/iJ4yPuNTVwbX4cyg8. You can also find submission links on posters in the art classrooms and halls. You can also visit our website at https://brooklineexhibition.wixsite.com/magazine.
You can submit multiple art pieces!
Body: The Brookline Exhibition is now accepting submissions for climate change related art and writing!
Body: The Brookline Exhibition is now accepting submissions for climate change related art and writing! Submit your environmental related art or literature to be featured in an in-person exhibition at a local museum!
Submit here til April 1st: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchCwFJMF8a-mGg1S1ws4jycHeTcvdFYiItKJpr_FI9Oohopg/viewform?usp=sf_link
Brookline High's ACE program is now accepting applications for the 2024-25 school year
ACE SY 2024-25 application process is now set and information times for the next month are listed below for any current Gr 9, 10 or 11 students that may be interested in joining ACE starting in September 2024. See below for ACE info night details, student info, and ACE application.
Feb 28 is the upcoming X block info sessions for interested students. Anyone who can't attend this X block can email Chrissie Carruthers (christine_carruthers@psbma.org) to schedule a separate time.
ACE Parent Information Night that will be happening this Wednesday, Feb. 28th at 6:30pm in the MLK room. There will be a panel of current ACE parents who will share their experiences with the program. ACE program coordinator will also be providing an overview of how the program works. See the ACE Info Night Flyer below.
SCHOOL WITHIN A SCHOOL - APPLICATIONS OPEN til 3/15 for SWS admissions for the 2024/2025
The SWS admissions process is now open!
Please take the opportunity to see if SWS could be a good fit.
Step 1 of the SWS admissions process is to fill out this google form.
More information about the program, and the admissions process, can be found at swsbrookline.org.
BHS Intramurals - Fitness Center
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday from 3-4:30 in the Fitness Center (Tappan).
Support Dogs @ BHS
Rafi continues to be at the 22 Tappan library on Mondays during lunch blocks. This week, support dog Finn will be only be at 22 Tappan during X block only this Wed 3/6.
If having some time with one of our BHS support dog visitors helps you, please say hello!
These dogs are certified and trained as support animals.
Need some extra help in any of your academic subjects? Reminder of resources @ BHS
UPDATED Help Center info: https://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/academic-help-centers.html
Plus always talk with your subject teacher to schedule some 1:1 support outside of class time too!
Math Center @ 115 Greenough: Room 266 - 7:30 - 8:15 - M - F
Math Center @ 22 Tappan: Room Tap416 - 7:30 - 8:15 - M - F
BHS LIBRARY HOURS
Monday 8:00am-4:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am-3:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am-4:00pm
Thursday 8:00am-4:00pm
Friday 8:00am-3:00pm
BHS Model Rocketry Club
Do you want to strap incendiary devices to cardboard tubes and shoot them into the sky (and then land them via use of a parachute)? Do you want to use the power of 3D modeling and 3D printing to make your cardboard tube more aerodynamic so that it flies higher? Do you want to add electronics to your cardboard tube to measure how high it goes?
If you said yes to any of these things, you should join the BHS Model Rocketry Club! We meet every X-Block in room 106! Please fill out this form (http://tinyurl.com/BHSRocketClub), and email Adi at 26kaushika@brooklinek12.org for any questions.
P.S. We will not be launching model rockets on school property as I am pretty sure that is illegal and dangerous, but there are safe launch locations.
Clubs @ BHS
Students can sign up for a number of clubs and decide to only attend a few. Remember, it's important to consider quality over quantity in your extracurricular experiences!
Keep in mind that students can join most clubs during any point in the school year, not just on the sign up day at the Club Fair. The current list of clubs can be found on the link below from the BHS website homepage:
https://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/clubs-and-activities-list.html
Check this out! Summer 2024 Programs, Job Opportunities and Internships
Summer 2024 Programs, Job Opportunities and Internships
Here is the link to the BHS Career Counselor's [Kate Kennedy] BHS Summer Opportunities document. Please let Kate know if you have any questions! We try to include opportunities that could match many interests and levels of financial resource from free to $$ expensive.
Please note... This is document is updated frequently as opportunities come in so, students should continue to check the document if they are not seeing something they are interested in right away!
Career Exploration at BHS
Save the Date for Career Fair at Natick HS - Tues March 12 from 6:30-8:30pm IN-PERSON
Framingham Public Schools and Natick Public Schools are collaborating to host our Personal Pathways Career and Training Fair on the evening of March 12th. We are hosting organizations and businesses in order to spread awareness of the wide variety of career and training options available in today's job market. Metrowest students and families are invited to learn about a variety of postsecondary options beyond typical 4 year colleges. Please see the attached flyer.
Vendors from the following sectors will be represented:
Architecture and Construction & Trades
Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Education and Training
Employment Services
Health Science
Hospitality and Tourism
Human Services
Law Public Safety and Security
Military
Personal Services
Real Estate
STEM
Trade School/Community College
This event is open to the public.
KATE KENNEDY - BHS CAREER COUNSELOR SUGGESTS.....
Check out the BHS Career Counseling website AND the BHS Career Counseling Blog with opportunities for students to explore different careers throughout the school year and beyond.
BHS Career Counselor - Career Exploration is here! Looking for a Job? Help with Resume Writing?
Find Ms Kennedy, the BHS Career Counselor, at both BHS buildings:
Ms. Kennedy’s Schedule 2023/ 2024
@ 22 Tappen rm 237 Monday, Tuesday ALL DAY AND
Wednesdays all day except X block
@ 115 Greenough Street rm 280/ 279 (The College and Career Center)
Wednesdays X block, Thursdays and Fridays
SENIORS
BHS Scholarship Application - EVERY SENIOR SHOULD APPLY NOW!
EVERY senior should complete the application and the other steps needed to be considered for Brookline community specific scholarships.
The Brookline High School Scholarship Committee announces that applications are now available for BHS Scholarships. Applications are available online on the right hand side of the BHS homepage and at this link.
Three criteria are used for choosing award recipients: academics, contributions and activities at BHS, and most importantly, unmet financial need. There are no merit scholarships per se given out through this program. To make fair decisions, the Committee requires that families complete and submit the CSS Profile financial aid form, available at CollegeBoard.com. The CSS Profile must be submitted to the Brookline Scholarship Fund, which is code 0424.
Check out the February Scholarship Letter!
Below is the link to the BHS Guidance website with the letter:
https://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/guidance/february-scholarship-letter8401524
Update from College Affordable on Delayed FAFSA Processing
A few weeks ago, the Department of Education notified the public that there would be further delays in FAFSAs being processed and sent to colleges. College Affordable knows this information is concerning for many families and wanted to share what they know so far:
2024-25 FAFSA submissions will start to process in March and be sent to colleges at that time.
Your FAFSA will remain in ‘review’ status on Studentaid.gov until the Department begins processing.
You should receive an email once the FAFSA has been processed with your Student Aid Index (SAI).
You will not be able to make any corrections or add colleges to the FAFSA until it is processed.
If you need proof of FAFSA completion for a scholarship, log into www.studentaid.gov with your student FSA ID and take a screenshot of the FAFSA in review as proof.
If you need an ‘estimate’ of what your Student Aid Index (or Expected Family Contribution), you can utilize the Student Aid Index Calculator in the Online Calculators section of your school/program’s landing page.
If you have been accepted to a college that utilizes the CSS Profile, we anticipate they will be able to give you a preliminary need-based award since they use that form to give out their institutional money. These schools may also project federal aid (Direct Loans and Pell Grants) with the data they have collected. These figures will become official after the colleges receive the FAFSA. At this point, you may receive updated award letters from colleges.
Colleges that use the FAFSA data to provide both their institutional and federal aid, will likely wait until they receive the processed FAFSA data before issuing need-based financial aid offers.
Over the coming weeks, it is important to monitor emails from colleges and note any deposit deadline changes. Each college will approach this differently and we anticipate a lot of communication in the coming weeks regarding this delay.
If you would like help completing your FAFSA, please schedule an appointment here: https://calendly.com/collegeaffordable
Sincerely,
Lynette O’Leary
Director of Financial Aid
College Affordable
financialaid@collegeaffordable.orgNACAC (National Assoc of College Admissions Counselors) has shared this information related to a request for undergraduate institutions to push back the usual May 1 deadline for deposits to schools since the FAFSA timelines have been delayed, allowing students and families more time to consider financial aid packages due to these delays.
All applicants should be monitoring the financial aid deadlines for the colleges they are applying to so that FAFSA and other documents are shared in relation to this shifting dynamic for 24-25 applicants.
The 2024-2025 FAFSA application is now available on studentaid.gov. Due to the form enhancements, the application is available for limited periods as the Department of Education monitors the site for any abnormalities. Here are some updates about the timeline and functionality:
-The FAFSA has launched 'softly' and has limited availability.
-When you log into the FAFSA you may be greeted with a waiting room, a screen that says the FAFSA is currently down, or be able to log in and complete the form.
-There is no schedule as to when the application will be available to complete.
-If you are unable to access the form (or the site is being finicky) we recommend trying to complete the form another time/day.
-FAFSA submissions will not be processed until late in January. Colleges will not have access to the information until that time. You will also not be able to access the submitted FAFSA until this time. If you need to correct the form or add different schools you must wait until it is processed to do so.
To access different videos regarding the FAFSA and FSA ID creation, please visit this link: https://vimeo.com/showcase/10854626. College Affordable will continue to add to the resources as things come up/or if there is new information to share.
Attached is a PDF that explains the processing timeline and general form information.
We encourage you to email your questions to College Affordable at financialaid@collegeaffordable.org. If you are new to College Affordable, please complete the Family Registration Form. To access the landing page, please click here.
College Affordable, the organization that the BHS Counseling Dept is now collaborating with, has shared the important info below on the FAFSA - federal financial aid form for college. Please review, check out the resources, and be sure to complete the Family Registration Form so you can receive free support and 1 full hour of free consultation for every BHS senior and family - click the CA landing page link below.
6 Things You Should Do After Submitting A College Application
College Data quick read - "6 Things You Should Do After Submitting A College Application". Take a look at these 6 important steps often CRITICAL to the college application process. Some of these steps have been highlighted in this Weekly Update over time, so here's a good overview to read and act.
IMPORTANT For seniors who have applied to college
-- CHECK FINANCIAL AID DEADLINES FOR ANY COLLEGES YOU HAVE APPLIED TO /BEEN ACCEPTED TO - Some colleges are now sharing DEADLINES for fin aid applications, since the FAFSA is now open.
-- READ YOUR EMAIL IF YOU HAVE APPLIED TO COLLEGE! Set up and check your portal for each college. If you have questions, students should be contacting the admissions offices, not parents….. See this article for more info about documents to college - http://admitted.nacacnet.org/wordpress/index.php/2018/11/21/parents-before-you-yell-at-your-childs-school-counselor/
Are you a senior and NOT thinking about college for next year? Talk to BHS counselors!
If you unsure of your next step after BHS graduation or are thinking of Gap Year, Military, Employment, or a 2 year program, please get in touch with your counselor, Lenny Libenzon (College Counselor - 2 or 4 year college programs and Gap Year) or Kate Kennedy (BHS Career Counselor). We're here to help every senior have a plan after graduation!
Over 87% of the Class of 2024 has now applied to college, many for early acceptance...
The BHS counselors are proud of students taking their post high school future into their hands and applying to college. REMEMBER:
- If you applied to some colleges and got denied for acceptance, you still have many excellent options for your planning. Take a look at this short article offered by Grown and Flown:
A Thank You Letter to the College that Rejected Me - https://grownandflown.com/thank-you-letter-to-college-that-rejected-me/?
- If you were accepted Early Decision, please contact your counselor to let them know. We cannot send out other BHS college application documents if you have been accepted (per your ED commitment contract). You should be contacting any college you have applied to before your ED acceptance to withdraw your applications to those schools.
- If you are concerned about the financial aid package proposed by the college that accepted you. please consider using the support of College Affordable to appeal the financial aid package.
- If you are applying for Regular Decision college applications (or EDII), please get support from your counselor and Lenny Libenzon (BHS College Counselor).
The ESSENTIAL BHS College Application Guide - download or print yours now!
Start working on your Description Questionnaire to share with your counselor
Parents can complete the Parent Brag Sheet to share with your senior's counselor
SENIORS AND JUNIORS
Apply for a MA Democratic Party internship and scholarship - application due 3/8/24
The Massachusetts Democratic Party has a very exciting opportunity for high school juniors and seniors that are looking to attend college in the near future. We are seeking intern and scholarship applicants for our internship and scholarship programs!
To apply, applicants need to go to this google form and be prepared to provide the following information:
- Cover Letter of Application
- Essay (300-word limit)
- One-page Resume
- Unofficial Transcript
- 2 letters of Recommendation (Can be emailed to tyler@massdems.org)
Completed applications are due by March 8th, 2024 at 5:00 PM and successful candidates will receive a $3,000 scholarship or $2,000 internship stipend, as well as the opportunity to intern with the Massachusetts Democratic Party during a presidential election year.
For further information, please see the PDF attached to this email or feel free to email contact below and he will respond to your question as soon as possible.
Tyler Carruth (he/him)
Operations Manager | Massachusetts Democratic Party
11 Beacon St, Ste 410, Boston, MA 02108
SAVE THE DATE 3/27/24 IN-PERSON @ BHS - Students with Learning Differences and College Support Panel
SAVE THE DATE - Learning Differences and College Support Panel @ BHS - MLK March 27 from 6:30-7:30pm
HS Seniors and Juniors - Apply to intern with the MA Democratic Party - applications due by March 8, 5pm....
The Massachusetts Democratic Party has a very exciting opportunity for high school juniors and seniors that are looking to attend college in the near future. We are seeking intern and scholarship applicants for our internship and scholarship programs!
To apply, applicants need to go to this google form and be prepared to provide the following information:
- Cover Letter of Application
- Essay (300-word limit)
- One-page Resume
- Unofficial Transcript
- 2 letters of Recommendation (Can be emailed to tyler@massdems.org)
Completed applications are due by March 8th, 2024 at 5:00 PM and successful candidates will receive a $3,000 scholarship or $2,000 internship stipend, as well as the opportunity to intern with the Massachusetts Democratic Party during a presidential election year.
For further information, please see the PDF attached to this email or feel free to email me and I will do my best to respond to your question as soon as possible.
Tyler Carruth (he/him)
Operations Manager | Massachusetts Democratic Party
11 Beacon St, Ste 410, Boston, MA 02108
JUNIORS
Junior Parent Virtual Coffee Q&A - This Thurs 3/7 @ 8:20am, zoom link below-
This Thursday, March 7, at 8:20 am, Darby Neff-Verre (BHS Counseling Department Chair) and Lenny Libenzon (BHS College Counselor) will conduct the virtual Q&A session about college and post high school planning process. Please come with your questions about the process; zoom link below.
https://psbma-org.zoom.us/j/6174544903?pwd=Q3N6b0daTlR5THFVd2VvT0duTDZ5Zz09
We will record this session to share with those who cannot attend.
Junior Semi-Formal Dance info - Event on March 15, 7-11pm @ BHS
In a few weeks, BHS will hold the annual Junior Semi-formal Dance in the 22 Tappan Commons on Friday, March 15th from 7 to 11 pm.
In order to purchase tickets:
- A contract must be signed by you and your parent/guardian/caregiver.
- Junior Semi Payment, $50.00/ticket.
- All checks or money orders must be made out to Brookline High School and include BHS student name written on the memo line. Submit payments to office 162 @ 115 or the main office @ 22 Tappan.
- Junior Semi Contracts and payment are due by Friday, March 8 at 3pm.
To support the health and wellbeing of all students attending the Junior Semi-formal dance, the following rules and processes are in place. Please review all of the details of the contract with your parent/guardian.
BHS Junior Semi Contract (this contract is for all BHS juniors and BHS-affiliated students from Class of 2025)
BHS Junior Semi Guest Contract (this contract is for current BHS/BHS-affiliated students who are NOT from Class of 2025)
We appreciate your partnership and look forward to a wonderful evening!
Dean Jenny Longmire, Dean Alexia Thomas, Ms. Kate Kennedy (Junior Class Advisor), Ms. Sabrina McIntosh, and the entire team at BHS
SAVE THESE DATES - JUNIORS AND GR 11 PARENTS-CAREGIVERS....
-- March 13 6:30-8:30pm IN-PERSON @ BHS - BHS College Fair
-- March ELA MCAS mornings March 26 and 27 - REQUIRED JR STUDENT ONLY workshops on these mornings. More info to come soon!
BHS College Fair is coming up on Wednesday, March 13th, starting at 6:30 pm
BHS will have multiple colleges signed up; students and parents/guardians are invited to talk to the admissions officers. The fair will take place in the STEM wing and BHS cafeteria. Important: plan to attend 5 to 10 different booths (see more advice on how to navigate the fair below). Here is the link to the list of colleges attending and other helpful resources: https://bhs.brookline.k12.ma.us/guidance/bhs-college-fair8335725
Register for a NACAC Spring Virtual College Fair
Registration is open for the Spring NACAC Virtual College Fairs. Students are invited to attend the first NACAC Virtual College Fair of the season on Sunday, Feb. 18 from 1:00pm - 6:00pm ET. The virtual fair is a great opportunity to connect with hundreds of colleges and universities - all from the comfort of your own home.
These fairs feature College MatchMaking®. At the time of registration, students will select the attributes that are most important to them in a college. They will receive an email that best matches them to specific colleges and universities based on the criteria they provided. Virtual fairs will also be offered on Sunday, March 24 and Sunday, April 21 from 1:00pm - 6:00pm ET.
As a reminder, these virtual fairs are free to attend.
2024 Post-Secondary Fair for Students Who Learn Differently @ Landmark School (Not BHS sponsored)
Join the 2024 Post-Secondary Fair for Students Who Learn Differently. Attendees will meet representatives from college and university admissions and student support services, gap-year programs, technical schools, and other non-traditional options.
Thursday, March 28, 2024, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. 447 Hale Street, Prides Crossing, MA This event is FREE and open to the public.
Landmark School Alice Ansara Athletic Center
High school students, parents, guardians, guidance counselors, and educators are all encouraged to attend.
Junior Guidance Seminars continue in Advisories/Hubs through Feb to early March 2024
At this time, juniors can contact their counselor for information and to set up an individual appointment– stop by, leave a note, send an email if they are not available.
WE ENCOURAGE ALL JUNIORS TO DO A FEW THINGS AFTER VIEWING THEIR PSAT SCORES:
1- MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH YOUR COUNSELOR TO DISCUSS PSAT SCORES AND START THINKING ABOUT COLLEGE PLANNING
2- USE THE FREE ONLINE KHAN ACADEMY LINKED TO THE PSAT REPORT TO LEARN ABOUT HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR SCORES
3- PARENTS-GUARDIANS CAN JOIN A STUDENT/COUNSELOR MEETING, IF APPROPRIATE. BHS COUNSELORS SUPPORT PUTTING THE JUNIOR IN THE "DRIVER'S SEAT" OF THIS PROCESS!
Here is the recording of last Monday 2/5 Brookline High Junior Night presentation
Focus on Post High School Planning... Jumpstarting the College Search Process!
College Admissions test dates for SATs/ACTs for School Year 2023-24
Brookline High will again be a test site for both SAT and ACT, starting in October 2023!
See the dates in the document below.
If you decide to register for college admissions testing, please go to the College Board (SAT) and ACT specific sites and sign up for the test date you prefer far ahead of your chosen date. Spaces fill quickly and other students outside of BHS are able to sign up for the BHS location.
REMEMBER THAT THE MOST IMPORTANT INFO FOR A COLLEGE APPLICANT IS THEIR HIGH SCHOOL TRANSCRIPT!
SOPHOMORES AND JUNIORS
PreACT practice ACT test and career exploration @ BHS 3/23/24 - Registration opens 3/4- 3/15/24
PreACT @ BHS will be Saturday March 23. Only offered one time.
The PreACT is a shorter practice version of the ACT college admissions test, normed for sophomores in high school. Juniors can also consider taking this practice ACT.
The PreACT also offers a built-in career interest inventory.
The PreACT registration form is attached below.
Each student taking the test will have the opportunity to:
Identify current academic readiness for college and career using the PreACT report
Predict how you’ll perform on the ACT after an additional junior year of learning (predictive quality of test is different for juniors since they already are having that “additional year” of curriculum as defined by the ACT)
Determine skills you can improve based on your performance (using your results to guide use of the free online ACT Academy prep program)
- Explore how your career aspirations align with your interests.
SOPHOMORES
Check out the Gr 10 counselor webinar for students from 2/28 Advisory
Recording of the Gr 10 Advisory webinar led by BHS counselors on Course Request and Selection for Gr 11 courses