Encourage

The first step from high school to college is a big one, and students need all of the support and encouragement they can get during this period. Teachers, counselors, parents, friends and family all play an important role.

You can help a high school student get on the right track to college.

Parents, here’s what you can do:

• Attend Parent-Teacher conferences to make sure you know how your son or daughter is performing in school and to make sure that they are on track for college.
• Talk with your child’s school counselor about college options—including financial aid, application processes and registration.
• Help your child with their homework and in preparation for standardized tests like the ACT and SAT.
• Search with your child to see which college would fit them best and plan ahead.
• Determine your family’s financial situation and factor in college costs to the equation.

There are some useful tools available online specifically for parents, family and friends to learn more. Several college-planning websites have sections specifically for parents. We suggest starting your search with these sites:

Adventures in Education

Collegeboard.com