Guidance Department News
Schedule Changes – Due to the work we are engaged in behind the scenes to create balanced cohorts in preparation for a hybrid return on Oct. 5th, students and families should be aware that schedule changes will be very, very difficult this year. There are many reasons for this but they ultimately have to do with the fact that our classrooms only hold 12-15 students at 6 feet of social distancing, so we need to keep our hybrid cohorts as balanced as possible.
SAT Cancellations – We are very sorry to report that the SAT administration for September and October 2020 have been cancelled at PHS. They are still scheduled for November and December but we will ultimately need to wait and hear from their Superintendent if they can remain open.
We also learned that Mount Anthony, in Vermont, has also cancelled for September and October.
The good news is, MOST colleges have gone test optional this year. Be sure to check each of your schools for the details of their current policies.
Here are the specific COVID related details from the College Board, including how to reschedule for a later test date. https://pages.
As always, if you are eligible for free or reduced lunch, please contact your School Guidance Counselor for a fee waiver number BEFORE you register.
College Planning Workshops - Siena College is launching a series of workshops called “Talk Tuesdays”. These are not just for students considering Siena, so please take advantage of the ones you need. Registration is required (see link below). Here are the dates and themes:
- September 1: College Application Workshop
- September 8: College Essay Workshop
- September 15: Choosing a Major
- September 22: First Generation
- September 29: Affordability
- October 6: Ask Admissions Anything
They will take place from 7-8 p.m. Students and parents can sign up for the ones they're interested in here: videochat.siena.edu.
Important College Application Tips for Seniors - We want to share this helpful information as you continue the application process. The article on acing your applications is particularly helpful! You can access the article here: https://www.salliemae.
We have also attached the Brag and Activity sheets that you will need to complete and return to your counselor so that we can write great, personalized letters of recommendation this fall.
Senior Brag and Activity Sheets.pdf
While we will be unable to visit classrooms for the usual college and career preparation presentations, we are excited to begin planning video presentations and meetings to help you out. More on that when we "return" on September 15!