School Counselor Connection
February 2021
From your School Counselor Specialist & Post-Secondary Coordinator
What a month February has been! Days have been filled advocating and celebrating National School Counseling Week, Black History Month, and CTE Month. Over 600 school counselors and other educators attended the AzSCA state conference. Superintendent Hoffman delivered her State of Education and State of Special Education. Plus we continue to hear amazing stories of the ways you are staying engaged and connected to your students. Thank you again for all that you do! School Counselors are definitely the heart of the school!
There is a lot of information in this issue. We hope you find it valuable.
Please reach out if you need anything. We are here to support you. Our contact information is located at the end of this newsletter.
Superintendent Hoffman - State of Education
Thank you to Superintendent Hoffman for including the importance of school counselors and social emotional learning in her State of Education speech earlier this month.
"As an educator, I know that implementing these critical supports into the school day takes time and professional guidance, which is why I supported the State Board of Education in revising counselor certification requirements, which created a pathway for individuals with their master's degree in counseling to receive a certification to work in public schools.
Since the change was implemented in December 2019, an additional 488 counselors received this certification – significantly more than in prior years. Their expertise and training are critical to ensuring that we are meeting students’ social-emotional needs, so they can continue to focus and grow in their academic learning.
In such a tumultuous year, I am grateful for all who centered student wellbeing.
This includes Lizette Monge, a school counselor at Coatimundi Middle School in the Santa Cruz Valley District. As a first-year counselor hired through the School Safety Grant Program, her expertise in mental health has been critical for her school community. Through weekly lunches and monthly guidance sessions with students in each grade level, Lizette provides structured support for students to build their coping and emotional regulation skills. This helps her students reduce stressors and manage their mental wellbeing.
As we work to help students overcome the challenges of this year, counselors like Lizette are essential to helping students get on track socially, emotionally, and academically. This is why I'm advocating for bipartisan support in providing $43 million to the School Safety Grant Program, which would fund the remaining first choice positions on our waitlist – potentially adding 355 counselors and social workers to our school communities. "
Here is a link to the full text of her speech: https://www.azed.gov/communications/full-text-superintendent-hoffmans-2021-state-education-address
ECAP Submission for SY20-21
- A copy of the school-wide implementation action plan or calendar (action plans or calendars should include: What, Where, When, Who in order to present a clear picture of your ECAP process for ALL students).
- A copy of a completed ECAP Plan from one student from the graduation class of 2021 with all identifying student information removed in order to be FERPA compliant).
Please refer to the official memo below that was sent to the person at your district who is in our ALEAT system. ALEAT is the online platform where your school or district submits these items.
These two monitoring documents need to be submitted to ALEAT by April 16, 2021.
Please click here to review a note about ECAP Moving Forward sent over the summer.
Please contact Amanda Nolasco with any ECAP questions at amanda.nolasco@azed.gov
Resources Hub
Elementary Career Exploration
Check out this great elementary career exploration unit from the Facebook Page Elementary School Counselor Exchange created and shared by Kenisha Roberts Backer. These lessons are appropriate for grades 3, 4 and 5. Career Exploration and Planning allows students over the the course of 5 or 6 classroom lessons to learn about what makes a good worker, what kind of jobs they could one day have and what their "Career Personality" is.
Virtual Calming Room
Many school counselors have created virtual calming rooms. Eden Coker-Jones from the Facebook Page Caught in the Middle School Counselors shared her virtual calming room and links she created to for use in Google Classroom. Below is a picture of how she organized the virtual calming room. Here are the links to be copied:
Music & Sounds:
https://docs.google.com/.../1B2Ze4RaKPSIDgivvWPwuv51.../copy
Breathing:
https://docs.google.com/.../1BRAIjOsojtmHSKUNuhcoFbT.../copy
Journaling:
https://docs.google.com/.../1bDuL8b.../copy
Live Cameras:
https://docs.google.com/.../1_kEsFqZUBfj.../copy
Games & Puzzles:
https://docs.google.com/.../1NykoSjCSzmXiJClD5.../copy
Stretching & Yoga:
https://docs.google.com/.../1jXOmOjhyHnp1H.../copy
Videos:
https://docs.google.com/.../16ybSZVtY4q0dA9ekttTxFHc.../copy
Sleep:
https://docs.google.com/.../1SofOlW_Dhxxkjr.../copy
If you think you have a great lesson, form, activity, presentation, etc. please share with me at amanda.nolasco@azed.gov.
School Counselor Connection PD & Collaboration
Join your ADE School Counselor Specialist & Post-Secondary Coordinator for monthly "Office Hours" to get updates and connect with other school counselors from around the state.
These virtual meetups are a chance for school counselors across Arizona to connect, share, and support each other during this new educational landscape. Join our monthly meetup and connect with your colleagues to learn and lead from wherever you are in our state!
Click on the button below to register for the spring dates.
Professional Development
Project EASEL: Empowering Arizona with Social Emotional Learning
Project EASEL: Empowering Arizona with Social Emotional Learning (formerly the AZ CCCTT project), sponsored by the Arizona Department of Education, provides free virtual trainings to educators, counselors, and others to increase students’ social emotional learning.
For registration information regarding Developing Students’ Competency free 90-minute Exploration Webinars, please click here.
Developing Students’ Competency Skills Topics:
Thursday, March 4, 2021 @ 2:00 p.m.
- Developing Students’ Assertiveness
Thursday, April 8, 2021 @ 2:00 p.m.
- Developing Students’ Self-Efficacy
To view opportunities and access registration links, click here
Join ADE as they continue to offer PD throughout the year via the IDEA conference (FREE):
March 2, 2021 from 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Presented by George Garcia, Jon Meyers, Sey In, and Juliana Huerena
Searching for an alternative to Legal Guardianship for people with disabilities? Join us in this session to learn more about how Supported Decision-Making serves as a less restrictive alternative to Guardianship and how to develop a plan of support that will allow a person with a disability to keep his or her rights while getting the support he or she needs to live independently.
March 4, 2021 from 2:45–4:00 p.m.
Presented by Chase Mielke
In this engaging, humorous, and heartfelt talk, Chase shares his experience as a veteran educator and provides key insights on how the science of small, positive moments creates thriving adults, learners, and communities. The audience will be empowered to take care of themselves so they can better take care of the young adults who need them. Participants will learn about:
- OPTIMISM—Refocus on the good in order to reignite our love for teaching,
- OWNERSHIP—Take control of our own well-being through simple, research-based actions that boost purpose and happiness,
- MINDFULNESS—Be present and turn minor moments into major momentum to thrive personally and professionally, and
- COMMUNITY—Cultivate positive relationships with kids and adults to build supportive and resilient cultures.
March 16, 2021 from 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Skills to Pay the Bills: Let’s Explore Enthusiasm and Attitude!
Presented by Arizona Youth Leaders of Diverse Ability Incorporated
Join the Arizona Youth Leaders of Diverse Ability Incorporated for an opportunity to highlight your strengths related to positive attitude and enthusiasm.
March 25, 2021 from 2:45–4:00 p.m.
The Iron is HOT: Using UDL in the Virtual Classroom
Presented by Paula Kluth
It’s undoubtedly important to teach in ways that honor learning differences and to structure lessons that are engaging, varied, and appropriately challenging. However, in this era focused on universal design for all, it is also critical to explore the underlying habits of mind related to “teaching them all.” This presentation centers on big ideas related to teaching and learning. The presenter, Paula Kluth, will discuss the role of “teaching up” and presuming both competence and complexity. She will explore the need to focus on student strengths, passions, and interests. She will also talk about the need to design lessons that are responsive and dynamic. This presentation will contain video clips, classroom stories, examples, and illustrations. It will provide both points of reflection and practical strategies. More importantly, it will feature ideas to help all teachers better respond to the diversity that exists in their classrooms every single day.
You can register by selecting sessions listed above or please visit the IDEA Conference web page:
- The Professional sessions will take place on Thursday afternoons from 2:45–4:00 p.m.
- Youth and Family sessions will take place on Tuesday afternoons from 4:00–5:00 p.m.
- Participants must register 48 hours in advance to guarantee needed accommodations.
If you have questions, please email the conference inbox.
AzCAN Webinars: FAFSA Resources
Throughout this spring and fall, AzCAN and the Arizona Commission for Postsecondary Education will host a series of FREE webinars around FAFSA completion. Dates and topics are below. All webinars take place from 2:00 - 3:00 PM. Click on the button below for full webinar descriptions plus a link to register.
March 9, 2021
- FAFSA 201: Advanced Topics
April 6, 2021
- After the FAFSA/Verification
August 31, 2021
- Before the FAFSA/FSA ID/Q&A All Things FAFSA
September 21, 2021
- FAFSA 101: The Basics
September 29, 2021
- Arizona FAFSA Challenge
October 26, 2021
- FAFSA 201: Advanced Topics
November 16, 2021
- After the FAFSA/Verification
CAP Classes 2021 - FREE
The Arizona Department of Education is pleased to announce a partnership with the Arizona College Access Network (AzCAN) to provide FREE online College Access Professional (CAP) trainings in 2021.
AzCAN’s CAP Training will help professionals develop an understanding of their role in developing a college-going mission for all students, particularly students in poverty or facing other barriers in postsecondary planning. These modules are designed for anyone who provides direct service to students including but not limited to school counselors, teachers, administrators, paraprofessionals, social workers, and librarians.
We would also like to recognize Arizona GEAR Up for their partnership as well to this project.
The Warrior's Guide: 8 Native American Principles to Create Enduring Strength
Be sure to get your FREE copy of the Warrior’s Guide: 8 Native American Principles to Create Enduring Strength at www.Nativediscovery.com. You will be working from this guide in the session.
Register here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tpfeqdYjSAm5pkZiMJk94A
Click on the flyer below for more information.
February is CTE Month
Let's celebrate CTE month by celebrating these CTE School Counselor leaders and ACTEAZ award winners for 2020. ACTEAZ is the Association for Career and Technical Education Arizona. Membership is FREE. Find out more at www.acteaz.org.
Want to learn more about CTE? Check out CTE Leads - A Centerpoint for CTE Needs
Heather Webb
Marilynn Babyar
Shelly Thome
CTE Month Video Contest - Every year ACTEAZ hosts a CTE video contest for students to submit their videos using the CTE Month theme. The winners from 2020 are:
1st place - Kwangsoo Kim, Westwood High School
2nd place - Jasmine Dauderman, Pinnacle High School3rd place - Michael Lissy, Mountain Pointe High School
Congratulations! Please take the time to watch the ACTEAZ Video Contest winners.
Career Chats: When I Grow Up - In this series, see an interview with a current professional and current college student in the nursing field. Thank you to the Northern Arizona College Resource Center for this series! Check out the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDP7P7IYZj0&t=3107s. Please share with your students, teachers, and communities.
Why Occupational Therapy? - FREE Webinar - Join Alejandra Arroyo, a third-year Occupational Therapy (OT) student here in Arizona completing her capstone project. Part of her capstone project is working with the Arizona Occupational Therapy Association to increase awareness of the field of OT with an equitable and inclusive lens.
Learn more about the profession and how you as school counselors can support your students for a career in OT.
- FREE virtual event. All are welcome!
- Will be offered 3 different days/times for your convenience
- Tuesday, March 30th, 9-10am
- Wednesday, March 31st, 12-1pm
- Thursday, April 1st, 6-7pm
- RSVP HERE or here- https://forms.gle/y4ZYHtZkYhMaAqub8
If you have any questions, contact Alejandra at ama2358@nau.edu.
MAYO CLINC CARES - Program for Teens
Mayo Clinic in Arizona is pleased to announce that the Mayo Clinic CARES (Career Advancement Research and Education Summer) Arizona Virtual program is currently open to applicants until March 15th. Additional information can be found in the Mayo Clinic CARES flyer and FAQs. This program will be 100% virtual this summer. There is no cost to apply, and all current freshman, sophomore, and junior students in Arizona are encouraged to apply.
The Mayo Clinic CARES program in Arizona is intended to introduce, prepare, and inspire high school students of various backgrounds and potentials for a career in the health care industry in a summer program with continuing, longitudinal mentorship. Mayo Clinic CARES aims to provide this opportunity to a diverse population of students. In order to reflect the communities we serve. Students who belong to any of the following groups or interest areas are especially encouraged to apply: diverse, first generation college potential, Upward Bound or STEAM pipelines, underserved, students receiving free or reduced school lunches, or special populations.
Please share information with your student colleagues, friends, and families. For more information, email officeforeducationdiversity@mayo.edu. See flyer below for more information and please share!
Call for Judges for CTSO Competitions
Over 40,000 students participate in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSO). These dynamic organizations develop academic success through applied academics, promote choice and identification of career options and foster interpersonal skills in teamwork, communications human relations and social interactions. They also encourage excellence in scholarship, build character, promote citizenship, volunteerism and patriotism, endorse cooperation and cooperative attitudes among all people and provide opportunities for state, national and international travel through internships, camps and leadership conferences.
Our CTSOs need judges for their upcoming state competitions. Please see the opportunities below to check out your CTE students in action! Judging a competition is great way to learn what CTE is all about.
FCCLA
Arizona FCCLA is excited to offer, for the first-time ever, a Virtual State Leadership Conference. This experience will allow our members to showcase the technical and employability skills they have gained through their time in Arizona Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, FCCLA.
I would like to invite you to volunteer as an evaluator for this virtual experience. You will not need to travel to a specific location. You will simply need access to an internet connection March 29 - 30, 2021. You will receive links to submissions from our members along with an online scoring rubric to evaluate these submissions.
If you would like to volunteer as an evaluator, click here. Please do not hesitate to share this sign-up form with anyone you know that may be interested in volunteering.
Educators Rising
At this time, we are contracted for an in-person conference with the ability to virtually score events during the following days and times:
Monday, March 29, 2021 - 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Tuesday, March 30, 2021 - 8 am - 6 p.m.
We ask you to commit yourself to the entire day(s) you sign up for and we will send you exact times you will judge in mid-March once all participants are assigned to you. Please block off the entire day(s) on your calendar. We are counting on you and it makes it incredibly hard when judges cancel.
In addition, we ask that you attend a virtual MANDATORY judge's training meeting on Wednesday, March 3, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. A calendar invite will be sent once judge's registration closes.
Judging will be ELECTRONIC and VIRTUAL. Judges are asked to have an electronic device with internet (laptop, tablet – phones are not recommended).
If you are a returning judge or are familiar with our events, you can request an event to judge. While it is not guaranteed that you will be assigned to the event you request, we will do our best to accommodate your request. A complete list of events along with the rubric and guidelines can be found at https://www.edrisingaz.org/event-guidelines-and-rubrics
If you are interested in being a judge, please complete the judge’s registration form here by clicking on judge.
You will be contacted in March with your specific event assignment, event rubrics and further details about the conference.
Skills USA
SkillsUSA Arizona is looking for judges for leadership events, which will be held virtually this year; please consider giving some of your time to help these students as they compete for a medal and a chance to compete at our national conference in June (also virtual). Contact Michelle Martinez at michelle.martinez@azed.gov for more information.
Here’s the link to register to judge the events: https://azskillsusa.wufoo.com/forms/z18ml2z20sr5sms/.
Please look at the flyer below to see the different events and schedule.
2021 College Board Counselor Recognition Program
College Board is pleased to recognize the 2021 College Board Counselor Recognition Program recipients. The following exemplary school counseling professionals are proven lifelong learners, collaborators, advocates, and data-driven counselors, committed to student access. Congratulations to all recipients. We had four amazing professionals in Arizona who we would like to celebrate for this accomplishment:
Oscar Gironi - Agua Fria High School
Yadira Higuera - Nogales Unified School District
Wendi Matthews - Mountain Ridge High School
Congratulations and thank you for all that you do for your students, schools, and communities!
Pandemic Support - Free Counseling Services
Valle Del Sol currently has a limited time grant through SAMHSA that allow us to offer FREE therapy and psychiatric services for those experiencing any emotional health concerns or stressors related to the COVID-19 Pandemic. They wanted to specifically share that this is available to school staff.
How do you get connected:
The School Staff interested can fill out their own VDS Referral Form attached and select the check box “teacher referral”
- This Referral Form can then be sent to VDSHelpsTeachers@valledelsol.com and we will reach out to get your started.
- A School’s Staff Referral and Service Enrollment will be kept confidential.
Please do not hesitate to reach out for any questions regarding this grant or how to connect your staff.
Second, they are currently offering a Creative Self-Care for Teachers Workshop to provide a supportive space for teachers to prioritize self-care. They partner directly with Childsplay, a Professional Theater Company to develop a workshop series for educators specifically! Creative Self-Care for Teachers is a 5 session, “support group” style Virtual workshop. These sessions focus on Teacher Wellness, Self-Care Strategies, Practicing Mindfulness, Playfulness, Connection Building and Finding Moments of Joy in the day-to-day. Ultimately, this series is centered on providing a “calm” space for teachers.” There is a cost to this workshop, but there are opportunities for grant coverage.
They acknowledge that the current circumstances are impacting educators both professionally and personally and ultimately affecting emotional health. Please reach out to them if you feel that your school would benefit or you would like more information!
Please see flyers below for information on the programs mentioned above.
Pandemic Support - Free Counseling Services
Resilient AZ Crisis Counseling Program
Assists individuals recovering from the psychological effects of the coronavirus pandemic, through outreach, emotional support, and educational services. All services are free and confidential. For individual/family services, 480.736.4978 or email CCReferrals@lafrontera-empact.org, and for group services contact 480.694.4436 or email Krylyn.Peters@lafrontera-empact.org
The program is federally funded through FEMA and SAMHSA, with the goal of providing emotional support, education, and outreach to Arizonans dealing with the psychological impact of the pandemic.
As part of that goal they are offering monthly workshops and groups through the end of May 2021. Workshops include: Tips to Handle Pandemic Stress, Surviving Grief, and Mindfulness.
While calendar events are open to the community, they are also available to provide services directly to specific groups.
Please see the flyers below on March events.
ASU/NAU/UA -Admissions Support
ASU
High School Counselors and teachers who are working with their students can connect with their schools admission team at: https://admission.asu.edu/findmyrep. You, your students and families can set up 1:1 appointments to get personalized guidance on completing the application for admission, FAFSA submission and next steps, and enrollment next steps.
ASU has also developed this next steps website for admitted students to walk through the entire process: https://admission.asu.edu/first-year/admitted.
NAU
Counselors, students, and parents can connect with their Admission Officers for any questions, concerns, requests, or for 1:1 appointments at: https://nau.edu/admission/admissions-officers/
Admitted students, their parents, and counselors can also check out how to complete next steps of enrollment at: https://nau.edu/admission/freshmen-next-steps/
Students and families can watch a virtual campus visit presentation and take a virtual tour of campus at:
Virtual Discover NAU Events:
Explore life as a Lumberjack – virtually – at our signature Discover NAU events. These virtual events bring together college-bound students and their families for an engaging and interactive look at NAU’s outstanding academic programs and student services. Virtual Discover NAU events include:
- Need to know admissions information
- A Q&A panel with current students
- Details on how to connect with us virtually after the event, including how to schedule an appointment with an admissions team member
Virtual Discover NAU events take place on the following dates and times:
- Saturday, March 6th (11am MST, Arizona time)
- Saturday, April 10th (11am MST, Arizona time)
Students and families can register for a DNAU event here: https://nau.edu/admission/discover-nau/
Or by calling 928-523-5511
Virtual Indigenous Visit Days
Discover how NAU honors indigenous cultures through academic and personal development. Students and families will learn about the Office of Indigenous Student Success, courses in Applied Indigenous Studies, scholarships and financial aid, and balancing culture with education.
- Monday, March 8th, 2021: Admissions Next Steps, 6-7pm (MST, Arizona time)
- Tuesday, March 9th, 2021: Native American Cultural Center & Office of Indigenous Student Success, 6-7pm (MST, Arizona time)
- Wednesday, March 10th, 2021: Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid, 5-6pm (MST, Arizona time)
- Thursday, March 11th, 2021: Student Clubs and Organizations, 6-7pm (MST, Arizona time)
- Saturday, March 13th, 2021: Meet your Admissions Officer, 11am-12pm (MST, Arizona time)
Students and families can register for our Virtual Indigenous Visit Days here: https://nau.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5ndS2TimIIgHTF3
Arizona Information Sessions:
In an effort to keep our Lumberjack community healthy, all Spring 2021 information session events will continue to be virtual! Join us for one of the following info sessions for students and families from specific areas around Arizona:
Maricopa & Pinal Counties
Sunday, March 21, 2021• 2 p.m. (AZ Time)
Click Here to Join
Maricopa & Pinal Counties
Sunday, April 11, 2021• 2 p.m. (AZ Time)
Click Here to Join
Maricopa & Pinal Counties
Thursday, April 22, 2021• 6 p.m. (AZ Time)
Click Here to Join
All AZ Counties except Maricopa & Pinal
Saturday, March 20, 2021 • 2 p.m. (AZ Time)
Click Here to Join
All AZ Counties except Maricopa & Pinal
Sunday, April 18, 2021 • 2 p.m. (AZ Time)
Click Here to Join
All AZ Counties except Maricopa & Pinal
Tuesday, April 20, 2021 • 6 p.m. (AZ Time)
Click Here to Join
Spanish Information Sessions:
Saturday, March 27, 2021 • 2 p.m. (AZ Time)
Click Here to Join
Wednesday, April 28, 2021 • 7 p.m. (AZ Time)
Click Here to Join
UA
- To find “their person” – the Admission rep working with their school (student or counselors!) - Who is my Recruiter?
- To schedule a 1:1 meeting with an Admission Counselor, on demand, Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm - Virtual Admissions Office Hour Meetings
- Of course, counselors, administrators, students or families can always reach out my way! Dan Kellish – Associate Director, Arizona Recruitment – dkellish@arizona.edu
University of Arizona
FAFSA Priority Date Approaching - March 1
The University of Arizona’s priority filing date to submit the FAFSA is March 1, 2021. Students are not required to apply by the priority filing date, but it is highly recommended due to the limited availability of need-based funds such as grants and Federal Work Study. Priority filing dates do not affect eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant or Federal Direct Loans or many merit scholarships.
Net Price Calculator
The University of Arizona Net Price Calculator will give students and families an idea of how much aid they could qualify for, and is a great tool to help guide future Wildcats. We offer a full array of financial aid options to help students pay for their education, and this great tool is now updated for Fall 2021 students! As always, students can get the most accurate picture of their cost of attendance by applying for admission and submitting their FAFSA, but to get an estimate, encourage students to check out: https://arizona.studentaidcalculator.com
College Application/FAFSA/Scholarship/Postsecondary Assistance
FAFSA Completion Resources from Impact Maker
Bringing together best practices from across the country, “Increasing FAFSA Completion in Arizona” provides a playbook for teachers and counselors. Download the playbook here. Awareness is a critical component of any FAFSA strategy – download this FAFSA Communications Toolkit, which can be used to promote FAFSA completion and college and career-readiness events. To extend support for your students, engaging businesses may be part of your strategy – download the corporate playbook, which provides resources for businesses to support FAFSA completion. Attend a free webinar on Feb. 4 to learn how other businesses, including Bank of America, Duncan Family Farms and the Phoenix Suns have implemented a community engagement strategy around FAFSA completion.
Impact Maker, an initiative of Valley Leadership, connecting leaders and community champions to tackle Arizona’s most pressing issues, including education. Learn more here.
College Connect
AzCAN has an AmeriCorps program that consists of virtual college advisers who are current college students. These advisers are working with high school students (100% free to schools) from all over the state. Contact information is below if you would like more information.
College Depot
Wild Out Counselor Wednesdays
Stay connected with the community and register for the upcoming Wild Out Counselor Wednesday workshops.
Wed., March 3, 11:00-12:00: Next Steps for Students after FAFSA & Admissions Applications
Register here: https://na.eventscloud.com/600350
Wed., April 7, 11:00-12:00: How to Host a College Signing Day Event
Register here: https://na.eventscloud.com/600354
Wed., May 5, 11:00-12:00: Utilizing Arizona’s College Access Centers to Combat Summer Melt
RMACAC - Rocky Mountain Association for College Admission Counseling
Come one, come all! Step right up and get ready to take your place among the fantastic at Superconference 2021, right in the heart of Dallas. Prepare to be dazzled by dynamic speakers, empowered by your professional peers, and enlivened by the energy of others! Join us under the big top in Dallas on April 11-13, 2021, three days only, for what is sure to be an event not soon to be forgotten. If you can’t be there in person, we will have virtual options available for all to join in on the show!
RMACAC invites colleagues to apply for professional development funds to attend the 2021 Super Conference in conjunction with GPACAC and TACAC.
These scholarships are intended to offset the costs of conference registration and travel to Dallas, TX, April 11-13, 2021.
Applications and nominations from others are welcomed. Preference will be given to applicants/nominees who represent one or more of the following:
1. High school or community college counselors/advisors who serve under-represented populations, including but not limited to students of color, rural students, public school students, and transfer students.
2. First-time RMACAC Conference attendee/have not participated in a previous regional conference.
3. Educators who cannot/do not attend the NACAC Annual Conference.
Should you have questions about the application or nomination process, please contact RMACAC IDEA Chair, Frank Laro at Frank.Laro@du.edu
While it is not a requirement to be a member of RMACAC to apply for a scholarship, if you are awarded funding you must join the organization prior to registering for the conference.
Applications are due by 11:59pm MST on February 26, 2021.
Please use this link to apply!
Maricopa High School FAFSA Best Practices Webinar
Scholarships
Rocky Mountain Association for College Admissions Counseling
The Rocky Mountain Association for College Admissions Counseling is proud to announce our student scholarship application is now open! For full details and link to the application form go to RMACAC Student Scholarship Application. All applications and supporting materials must be submitted by 11:59 PM MST on Friday, March 19, 2021.
We are excited to once again offer two (2) $1,000 scholarships to students in each of our member states; Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming, for a total of $10,000 in award monies. We have tried to keep this application and supplementary materials as concise and simple as possible. This scholarship is awarded to either:
1. students who live in one of the member states, attend a public or private high school in one of the member states, is in their final year of high school, and will be attending a regionally accredited college or university beginning the Summer 2021 or Fall 2021 term. Students must have at least a 3.0 high school GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
2. students who live in one of the member states, attend a regionally accredited 2-year college in one of the member states, and will be transferring to attend a regionally accredited college or university beginning the Summer 2021 or Fall 2021 term. Students must have at least a 3.0 college GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
International students and students with undocumented/DACA status who attend high school or a 2-year college within the RMACAC region are also eligible to apply.
This scholarship also requires that interested students be nominated by a current paid member of RMACAC by the date of the close of the application (March 19, 2021). If you are not already a member but plan to recommend a student for this scholarship, you can still join by going to https://rmacac.org/membership/. Your student’s application will not be considered if the nominator is not a member of RMACAC by March 19.
Should you or your students have any questions, please reach out to the IDEA Committee Chair, Frank Laro, at Frank.Laro@du.edu.
Scholarship recipients are to be publicly announced during the 2021 RMACAC Super Conference in Dallas, TX, April 11-13, 2021. Not registered for the conference yet? Do so soon, as the early bird pricing ends February 5!
2021 Super Conference Registration Link. See you there!
UMPS CARE Charities All-Star Scholarship
The All-Star Scholarship is open to children adopted at or after the age of 13 to provide increased opportunities for advanced education. Each year, one student will be selected to receive the scholarship. This student will be eligible to receive up to $10,000 annually to go towards tuition, books, and other college-related expenses.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Applicants must have been adopted at or after the age of thirteen (13)
- Demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA Application
- Applicants must be incoming college freshmen under the age of twenty (20)
Application Requirements:
- A completed application that includes four short answer/essays written by the student
- Three letters of recommendation. Letters should reflect the writer’s knowledge of the student’s achievements, improvements, and personal needs. (Teacher/Administrator, Personal Reference, Parent)
- Most recent high school transcript and a copy of first semester's grades
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Copy of your Student Aid Report (FAFSA)
2021 All-Star College Scholarship Application is now live and deadline is May 14, 2021.
Delta Beta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Delta Beta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is pleased to announce its scholarship program for 2021. Over the years, this chapter has awarded scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 to deserving students. Our mission is to provide service to all mankind by volunteering our time and resources to multifaceted programs that address education, health, and wellness, as well as issues of national and international concern.
Applications for scholarships are now being accepted from qualified students who:
· Are graduating high school seniors entering a four-year college or university OR are community college students transferring to a four-year college or university
· Have a minimum GPA (Grade Point Average) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
· Are interested in careers in education (for the Dr. Peggy L. Payne Memorial Scholarship only).
Recipients will be selected for their accomplishments in the classroom, community and for their excellence in various educational categories. Recipients will also be celebrated in virtual ceremonies.
· Click here to access the online application
· Click here to download a printed version of the form
The deadline to apply is Wednesday, March 31st, 2021.
Students can apply and find more information at https://www.dbo-aka.org/scholarship.
Arizona Community Foundation
Multiple scholarships for high school seniors, current college students, or adult re-entry students. March 1 deadline to apply.
https://azfoundation.academicworks.com/
NAU's Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals 2021 Student Summer Internship. The student summer internship (SSI) program is a 8-week program for college students and the short internship (SIP) program is a 20 to 40 hour long internship program for high school and college students. The purpose of the internship programs is for students to gain hands-on skills with EPA or other governmental and tribal environmental offices. February 26 deadline to apply.
http://www7.nau.edu/itep/main/eeop/internships
ASU's Pathways for the Future Scholarship
This program provides individuals with the skills to remain competitive and relevant in today's ever-changing workforce. Pathways for the Future makes college programs more affordable, accessible and impactful for hardworking students in Maricopa County. As a reminder the Pathways for the future application is due March 1st 2021. See picture belows for more information.
Here is a link to a video explaining the program and how to apply.
ACTEAZ - Association for Career and Technical Education Arizona
Career Guidance Award
This award recognizes school counselors and career development professionals who have demonstrated commitment to connecting students with opportunities for success, shown innovation in career exploration and development, and have advocated for CTE as a viable option for all students.
All candidates must be employed as school counselors and/or career development professionals at the time of initial nominations. Candidates must be members of ACTEAZ for three years for consideration at the state level. State winners must be national ACTE members by March 1 to be considered at the Region level.
Student Scholarship
Scholarship Information:
The ACTEAZ Scholarship is non-renewable (meaning this scholarship is a one-time award).
- The scholarship will be payable to the educational institution identified by the applicant.
- The scholarship amount can range from $500.00 – $2,500.00 based upon the available funds and the number of scholarships the committee agrees to award.
Eligibility:
To be eligible to receive an ACTEAZ Scholarship you must:
- Be an Arizona graduating senior who is enrolled in a recognized Career and Technical Education program at a high school (from Funding Priority List)
- Be an Arizona student who is enrolled in a recognized Career and Technical Education program at the post-secondary level (may include CTE Teacher Preparation Program)
- Be nominated by a current ACTEAZ member (ACTEAZ Members may nominate a maximum of two students)
- Have not previously been awarded a Scholarship by ACTEAZ
Selection Criteria:
Scholarship recipients will be selected using the following areas of criteria:
- CTE Involvement
- School and Community Involvement
- Essay Responses
- Nominating Letter
Upcoming Event - ACTEAZ
ACTEAZ is hosting the Find Your Pot of Gold Virtual Conference, March 4-5, 2021.
This conference is open to Administrators, Counselors, and Teachers.
Cost for the Conference will be $220.00. Included in the cost is the option for you to enjoy all sessions for two weeks after the conference. We know you are terribly busy, and we hope this will give you time to see all the wonderful presentations that will be offered.
This is an opportunity to learn best practices regarding learning what we have experienced over the last 10 months, on educating your school boards, peers, and students’ parents on what Career and Technical Education is and how CTE has stepped up to the plate during these times.
It will also give us the opportunity to pass along those many great ideas and things we have learned that might make teaching easier on you, which will not only benefit the future of our students, but the future of Arizona and beyond.
That piece is so important with all we have learned over the last six months. Participants will also learn more about developing and sustaining the incredibly important partnerships we have with Post-Secondary Institutions and Industry.
Be sure to join us as we look at CTE as it is today, but also on how we can help you Find Your Pot of Gold during these times. We hope that you will leave this conference, energized, happy and relaxed.
Registration is now open! Click on the button below to register.
AZ Education Job Fair - Please Share!
Are you searching for employment in Arizona schools? Do you have an active teaching certificate and need a teaching position, or are you looking to reenter the education profession? If so, then this is an event you don’t want to miss! The Arizona Education Virtual Job Fair is free and will connect you with dozens of districts and charters looking for amAZing applicants just like you. You will be able to search for available positions, visit employer booths to chat with them via text or video, and find out about their communities and schools. There will also be certification specialists available to answer questions.
To prepare for the Arizona Education Virtual Job Fair, you can view required certification documents, apply for certification online, and check the status of your certificate. You can also find out more about fingerprint clearance, and learn about Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessment requirements.
For questions about certification, email certification@azed.gov or call 602-542-4367.
If you have questions regarding the Arizona Education Virtual Job Fair, email Julie Lenza.
If you are unable to attend the job fair but are interested in open positions in Arizona, please visit the Arizona Education Employment Board.
We look forward to supporting you as you enter and elevate Arizona’s teaching profession. Come and see the amAZing opportunities that Arizona has to offer!
Register today at www.azeducationjobfair.com.
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Amanda Nolasco -School Counselor Specialist
Email: amanda.nolasco@azed.gov
Website: www.azed.gov
Location: Arizona Department of Education
Phone: 602.542.5353
Twitter: @mrs_anolasco
Andrea Glenn - Post-Secondary Coordinator
Email: andrea.glenn@azed.gov
Website: www.azed.gov
Location: Arizona Department of Education
Phone: 602-364-4799