Class of 2024 Update

Staying in the know this year...

Class of 2024 and Parents/Guardians:

This year, I will be sending out A LOT of important and often time-sensitive information for seniors, which will be communicated through the Weekly Counseling Update newsletter that comes out on Fridays each week (look at the "Just for Seniors" section). Also, be on the lookout for upcoming evening Parent Events throughout the year to provide additional information on college research, planning, applications, financial aid, military and skilled trades options, and more. The WSD Career and College Hub currently houses all of the slideshows from last year. Throughout this year, we will update the Hub to include a library of resources for students and families.

We know you have lots of questions, and we have answers! So, please make sure you are taking advantage of the resources we share this year.

One more thing... in an effort to both encourage Seniors to take responsibility for their educational and career plans, as well as utilize our time well, we are asking when possible that Seniors come to the Student Center during Soar Time (aka Power Lunch Time) to ask questions they or their parents have. Students have one hour every day that can be used for whatever they need. We expect seniors to use some of that time to communicate with teachers and counselors.

College Applications and Transcripts

Some seniors have begun the process of applying to colleges and universities. Others have not started this process yet, which is absolutely fine. Most students will submit college applications beginning in October, which is why we have designated October as "Apply Month." During Apply Month, we provide application assistance through group sessions scheduled throughout the month. Students can come down to the College/Career Center for as many sessions as they'd like to receive help on their college applications.

Once the applications have been submitted, the colleges will instruct applicants to request a transcript from their high school. WSD sends transcripts electronically to colleges, and this year we are switching to a new platform for this process called Xello. We have had the initial training on how Xello sends transcripts (and letters of recommendation, when required), and we will have additional training on how students can access their Xello accounts and request transcripts and required letters on August 31st.

After the August 31st training, all 4 WSD High Schools will then schedule a time to meet with Seniors to train them on the process. Per district guidelines, all four high schools will send requested transcripts to colleges beginning on September 15th.

There will be no transcripts or letters sent until September 15th
Prior to that date, students will be taught how to login, navigate Xello, and request transcripts and letters of recommendation
We will ONLY be sending transcripts and letters through Xello (not SCOIR or email)
Students may submit applications at any time
TRANSCRIPTS AND LETTERS DO NOT NEED TO BE SENT AT THE SAME TIME AS THE APPLICATION.
This small delay will not adversely affect college applications in any way.