goal setting tips for a productive high school career

GOAL SETTINGTIPS FOR A PRODUCTIVE HIGH SCHOOL CAREER

MY PLANNER TAB

• This tab is the final option for students on Naviance and is read-only for parents. It contains three sections:

• GOALS: A convenient way for students to keep track of short term and long term goals.

• TO DO LIST: Students can use this tool as a calendar for homework assignments.

• TASKS ASSIGNED TO ME: The School Counselors can set tasks for the students related to college and career planning.

WHAT IS A GOAL?

• Long term (future) – Example: Getting into College Park.

• Short term (right now) – Look into Admissions requirements for College Park.

• Academic – Take challenging classes based on what College Park recommends.

• Career – Decide on your potential career path so you know what to major in.

• Social – What kinds of activities can I participate in that will help me step outside my comfort zone in order to become well-rounded?

• Extracurricular – Clubs, organizations and sports of which I can be a part.

EXPLORE THE “MY PLANNER” TAB

• Take time to log on and see what’s included in the “My Planner” Tab.

• If your student is with you, create one goal or task.

HOW CAN PARENTS HELP?

• Goal setting is individual to every child and should be based on their needs and desires. However, there are ways in which parents can help guide the process.

• TALK TO YOU CHILD! On a regular basis, ask open ended questions. “Tell me what you like about math.”

• Ask about the future, “What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?” Can they envision sitting behind a desk or out in nature?

• Find out what makes them tick, “What is important to you as a person?” or, “What is your passion?”

• Most importantly, work hard not to “give them the answers.” This conversation is ongoing and their answers will probably change over time. That’s good, it means they are thinking!

THOUGHTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL SUCCESS

• Make sure the parent and student emails are in Naviance and are correct. Make sure it’s an email address that you use regularly.

• C Milton Wright counselors will use those email addresses to contact you regarding dates, reminders, deadlines, etc.

• Your goals should be updated continuously. It’s okay for them to change.

• High School is a time for exploration. Use your electives well and volunteer. Be an active part of your community.

• Keep track of your resume as you go. Senior year is too late to recreate what you’ve done over the last four years.