Fall is a busy time of year, especially for high school students and their parents. There is a multitude of extracurricular activities, homework, testing, college preparation, applications to fill out, research, testing, and academics. Oh, and did I mention testing. It can all get to be a little overwhelming at times. But fear not, the high school counseling department is here to help alleviate the stress and bridge as much understanding to help students and parents through these processes. Sue Wood takes care of students with last names A-K, and Rachelle Crenshaw takes care of students with last names L-Z. Once a month a ‘Counselor Update’ is held to keep parents informed about testing, upcoming events, and deadlines, as well as to bring in representatives to help with financial aid (FAFSA), Apply Texas, and college applications. The August and September updates were aimed at clarification on the state standardized STAAR assessments. November 5th is the next update from 5:30 – 6:15 in the high school cafeteria and we will be discussing the new resource site launched by TEA, Texas Education Association, www.texascollegeandcareer.org, which provides free information about college options, academic and financial preparation for college, higher education admissions and career research. December’s update will be aimed at seniors and helping with college. Once a month during lunch, colleges and military representatives will have tables for students to come and visit. Also, please check out the Counselor’s Corner on the Aransas Pass High School web site to find links to testing information (ACT, SAT…), college and career information, as well other helpful links, and a list of upcoming events.

- Article by Rachelle Crenshaw, High School Counselor