Navigating High School: A Year-by-Year Guide for Parents to Support Their Teens

When I was a school counselor in the Gallatin Valley, I often spoke with parents anxious to make the most of their teen’s high school experience. “I don’t want them to miss out,” was a common sentiment. Each year of high school feels different, and with each passing year, families often feel stressed about what to do or where to seek answers.

Here is a quick guide to get you and your teen started. Even if they are already halfway through high school or at the tail end, it’s not too late. You are your kid’s advocate, champion and biggest supporter. Don’t stop!When I was a school counselor in the Gallatin Valley, I often spoke with parents anxious to make the most of their teen’s high school experience. “I don’t want them to miss out,” was a common sentiment. Each year of high school feels different, and with each passing year, families often feel stressed about what to do or where to seek answers.

Year-by-Year Guide

Freshman Year:

Focus:

Defining intentions and creating good academic and personal/social habits

Tips:

• Your vision may not be identical to your teen’s. Let them voice their wants, wishes and needs (it will change, and that’s OK).

• Help them learn how to organize and build good study habits.

• Focus on exploring their likes and dislikes.

• Encourage them to engage in at least one activity (inside or outside of school).

• Have them identify one trusted adult in the building.

Sophomore Year:

Focus:

Narrowing down a pathway, such as trades, college or the workforce

Tips:

• Encourage continued involvement in activities. If working, balance extracurricular activities and school. Research Montana’s labor laws for minors.

• Take the PSAT as a 10th grader.

• Start volunteering if they haven’t already. This looks great on resumes and scholarship applications, and our community benefits from their service.

Junior Year:

Focus:

Taking challenging classes and volunteering

Tips:

• Take the PSAT and begin studying for the ACT or SAT.

• Enroll in AP and/or dual credit classes (Montana students get up to six free college credits within the Montana University System).

• Volunteer as much as possible.

• Start studying for the ACT early. All Juniors in Montana take this in school, usually in March or April. Check with your school’s testing coordinator for dates, accommodations and cost.

• Narrow down the list of top five colleges/trade schools they want to attend. Start looking at deadlines and costs to attend. Begin applying in the summer after Junior year. Don’t forget that they can apply to most Montana colleges for free during College App Week (September 30 - October 11, 2024).

Senior Year:

Focus:

College and career decisions

Tips:

• Start applying for scholarships in the summer before senior year.

• Continue to do well in classes and take challenging courses.

• Volunteer and start something new. Get creative!

• Register to take the ACT or SAT again in the fall of their senior year.

• Finalize the list and apply to all college/ trade school/community colleges of interest.

• Check if you qualify for Free or Reduced Lunch to get fees waived for the ACT/SAT and college applications. Speak with your school counselor.

• Stay updated with events by visiting your school’s website, social media platforms and joining parent groups.

Each year of high school is a unique opportunity for your teen to grow and prepare for their future. By staying involved and supporting them through these crucial years, you can help ensure they make the most of their high school experience.

Overall Tips:

• Mental health matters. If they need extra support, use your resources and seek help. It’s OK to not be OK.

• Set healthy boundaries and expectations when it comes to cell phone usage. Model the behaviors you want to see from your teen.

• Teach your teen how to FAIL! Expect mistakes, not perfection. Make them teachable moments.

• Keep a school calendar handy to know when grading periods start and end.

• Ensure you have access to their attendance and grades online or via your phone. This is also a great way to communicate with your teen’s teachers.

• Speak with your teen’s school counselor. They are an amazing resource.

Erica Parrish, M.S, NCC, LSC, LCPC is the owner and founder of ELM Coaching www.elm-coaching.com.