AGHS Pirate Counseling
STAY IN THE KNOW...
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Join the Remind group for your grade!
Parents should join too!
PIRATE TIME INFO:
What is Pirate Time? Advisory is now called Pirate Time. This 30 minute period should be used for HOMEWORK and/or to repair a grade.
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What is the GOLD/SILVER/BRONZE badge color? Every 6 weeks there will be grade/attendance/discipline checks. The results of this check will then give you a badge color. Each color has different requirements and incentives.
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GOLD Requirements/Incentives: All A's, no more than 2 absences, NO office referrals. Each teacher may choose a different incentive, but if you are on GOLD level you may get advisory time free to hang out in the library, go work on art work, etc.
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SILVER Requirements/Incentives: A's and B's, less than 4 absences, NO office referrals. Incentives may be different room to room. Students will check in with their teacher and then go to a study hall in the cafeteria. This time should be used productively.
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BRONZE Requirements: Anyone who does not qualify for Gold or Silver is a Bronze. This will mean you need some extra help in one or more classes. Your Pirate Time will be spent working with teachers for more individualized assistance. The goal is to move up a badge level by the next 6 week check!
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start thinking about the ACT?
Any student in grades 9-12 can register for and take the ACT as many times as it is offered. It is a good idea to take it once during the 10th grade year to familiarize yourself with how the test is structured and then start taking it more seriously during your junior year. It is best to take the ACT prior to October of your senior year as some scholarships have deadlines as early as September of your senior year.
How important is an ACT or SAT score?
The score on either test is VERY important! Every state and national scholarship (other than a performance based scholarship) will consider the ACT/SAT score. The higher your score, the better. In addition, many colleges and universities have ACT/SAT minimum score requirements for admission. This is another reason taking the ACT more than once is very beneficial.
What is considered a high ACT score?
The state average ACT score for Missouri is 21. The Bright Flight Scholarship (offered at many universities through the state) requires a 31 on the ACT.
How hard is it to improve my GPA after a bad freshman year?
Unfortunately it is very difficult to improve your GPA after a bad freshman year. A cumulative GPA will figure in every grade for all 4 years of high school. A student will need to earn high grades to raise their GPA after a disastrous freshman year. If you are struggling, take advantage of advisory time or the A+ tutors for extra assistance, or stop by the counseling office to make an academic plan with Mrs. Beckner. She can help!
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When should I start looking into colleges or careers for after high school?
Great question!! It is NEVER too early to start researching after graduation options.
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When should I start the college application process?
Start applying to schools that you are interested in as soon as possible. Some colleges or universities have early application deadlines (such as College of the Ozarks and their October priority date), while other have a set December 1st application deadline. Mrs. Beckner & Mrs. Day will host Application Nights in the Fall and Spring to assist seniors with applying for college, scholarships, and the FAFSA. Check the website for upcoming Application Night dates!