Student Support Team

Park Hill South graduates will possess knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their college and career plans and their personal well-being, prepared to meaningfully contribute to an increasingly complex and diverse world.

School Counselors collaborate with students, staff, community members and parents/guardians, with a focus on equity and access for all students, to implement at Park Hill South High School a comprehensive school counseling program that supports the academic, career, and social/emotional development needs of all students through the program components of

• School counseling curriculum;
• Individual student planning;
• Responsive services; and,  
• System support,

to ensure all students flourish in an ever-changing world.

• All students have value, dignity, and can achieve to be successful learners.
• All students - regardless of ability, age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or socioeconomic status - shall have equal access to all services (academic, career, and social/emotional) provided by a Comprehensive School Counseling Program.
• All students will have equal access to school counselors who are engaged in continuous professional development who use data to drive program evaluation and improvement.
• Through the School Counseling Program’s Direct Counseling Services component, counselors will meet the individual career and college planning needs of all students.
• School Counselors will engage various stakeholders to ensure programs and initiatives consider vulnerable, disenfranchised, and exceptional students to increase equity and access to opportunity for all students.
• The School Counseling Program helps build a positive school environment by encouraging collaboration among counselors, teachers, administrators, parents, and other stakeholders to further student achievement.
• The School Counseling Program utilizes the Missouri Comprehensive School Counseling Program - which is in alignment with the American School Counselor Association Model.
• Every counselor will follow the ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors by personifying the highest level of ethical behaviors.

Angie Sharp

Students: A-C

 

 

 

 

Jennifer Grossman

Students: D-He

 

 

 

 

Andy Dale

Students: Hf-Mc

 

 

 

 

Dana Combs

Students: Md-Sa

 

 

 

 

Traci Dorrell

Students: Sb-Z

 

 

 

 

Robin Bradford

Registrar
816-359-5907

 

 

 

 

Julie Sherbo

Registrar
816-359-5625

Katie Manga

MTSS Coordinator
816-359-4122

Greg Knepper

504 Coordinator
816-359-6883

Trisha Dobnikar

Counseling Administrative Assistant
816-359-6828

 

 

Interactions between school counselors and students.

Interactions with others, on behalf of the student, including referrals for additional assistance, consultation and collaboration with parents, teachers, other educators and community organizations. It also includes management activities and services required to support a district’s comprehensive school counseling program, as well as the other educational programs of a district.

Consists of educational activities in classroom lessons and large group presentations that help students attain the Grade Level Expectations (GLEs) in the areas of social/emotional, career, and academic development. The curriculum is systematically presented by school counselors in collaboration with teachers through classroom lessons and other learning activities.

Consists of ongoing systemic activities to help all students establish personal goals to plan, monitor, and manage their own learning as well as their personal and career development. It addresses their grade to grade transition through school and it helps each of them to develop their post-secondary college and career plans.

Consists of activities to meet immediate needs and concerns of students.

Consists of management and evaluation activities and services that establish, maintain, enhance and support the district's total school counseling program. 

1. Log into Naviance through the Park Hill Portal. 
2. ​After you log into your Naviance, go to the top right corner - click on "COLLEGES"
3. At the drop down menu, click on "COLLEGES I AM APPLYING TO"
4. Click on the RED CIRCLE PLUS SYMBOL in the far right and select your appropriate option:  "College Application Transcript" (or) "Other Transcript"
5. Fill out the appropriate information for either category and hit submit.
6. Transcript requests are completed within 7-10 days of submission.   Be sure to plan ahead to avoid missing deadlines!   You can monitor the status of your transcript request in your Naviance account.​

 

Request your Transcript from the Registars' Office:

• ​​​You may email your transcript request to Julie Sherbo or Robin Bradford. If you have additional questions, please contact Julie Sherbo at 816-359-5625 or Robin Bradford at 816-359-5907, and include the following information:
  • First and Last Name of Graduate
  • Date of Birth
  • Graduation Year
• Transcript Requests must be submitted to the Registrar's Office 3-5 school days prior to the mailing deadline. If they are received after the 3-day notice we will not be able to guarantee the mailing of transcripts for colleges/universities and/or scholarship deadlines. There will be no official transcripts issued for hand-carried purposes. 
• Test scores will not be included on the transcript. Test scores must be requested from the testing agency directly (i.e. ACT or SAT). 

​If you have earned college credit from MCC-Maple Woods through a dual credit class at Park Hill South, you must request to have a transcript sent to the college/university you plan to attend after you graduate. To request a transcript, follow these instructions: 

1. Access your myMCCKC Account
2. Find the Student Center Home
3. There is a pull-down menu that includes an option to request a transcript.
    

​To have your scores sent to your college after you graduate high school: AP scores will be available online in mid July each summer.  To get scores, student must sign up for a College Board account by going to View Your Scores on AP Exams – The College Board

We encourage students to take this step now so they’ll be ready to access their AP scores in July. For more information, go to apscore.org.   

Find colleges and universities that offer credit or placement for AP scores. 

• Crisis Text Line: Text "Hello" to 741741 to speak with a mental health professional.
• United Way: 211 is a free and confidential service that connects people to everyday needs that aren’t quite 9-1-1 emergencies. Need to find counseling? A health clinic? Job training? A food pantry? Simply dial 2-1-1, or visit United Way 2-1-1 Online to search for resources on your own.
•  Northland Human Services Directory 

• Suicide Crisis Hotline:  1-888-279-8188
• ​National Suicide Crisis Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
• The Trevor Project: National LGBTQ Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Hotline:  1-866-488-7386
• Thursdays Child: Helping children & young adults who are abused, missing, anorexic, bulimic, suicidal, cutters, runaways, victims of date rape, bullying or trafficking or have issues with drugs or alcohol.

• Breathing Exercises (PDF)
• Mindfulness Apps 
• Guided Meditations 
• Interactive Breathing 
• Three Ways to be Mindful

See the district website to learn more about our special programs, like Professional Studies. 

• 9th Grade (PDF)
• 10th Grade (PDF)
• 11th Grade (PDF)
• 12th Grade (PDF)

Want to learn more about the courses offered at Park Hill South? Check out our Course Description Video Library for short, one-minute videos telling more about our courses!

Each student meets with their counselor one-on-one throughout the school year to discuss their four-year academic plan.  These plans bring focus to the learner taking the right courses that meet their college and career goals after high school.  

Four-year plans are housed on Infinite Campus and students have access to make changes to their plans throughout the school year as life experiences and goals change.  Parents and Guardians are highly encouraged to have conversations with their student(s) regarding their academic plans.  Each March the students’ academic plans translate into their course request for the subsequent year. Therefore, it is important academic plans are updated and accurate. 

Questions to talk through with your student(s) regarding their Four-Year Plans:

• What are your goals after high school?
• What do you want to explore now, for free, to explore your interest in college and career explorations?
• How are you challenging yourself academically as well as providing balance to things you are interested and excited about? 
• Why did you pick these classes? (It should not be because their friends did.)

• Research colleges and universities that are of interest to you.
• Attend the Kansas City National College Fair (sponsored by Park Hill South HS Counseling).  Details here
• Are you looking for a school that specializes in the Fine Arts? Attend the Kansas City National Performing and Visual Arts College Fair!  Details here
• Use the resources on our website to help you with your search. 
• Visit with one of the many college reps that come to Park Hill South each year. 

• Narrow down your list of colleges to your top 3-5 schools and schedule your campus visit.
• Schedule your college visits ahead of time.
• All college visits are scheduled through the admissions offices.
• Schedule your visit online through the college/university website.
• Here are college visit resources:
  • ACT College Planning Resources
  • College Board Campus Visit Guide
  • FastWeb College Visit Resources
  • Princeton Review "The College Visit" 
  • US News and World Report "College Tours"
  • US News and World Report "10 Tips for an Effective College Visit."
     

• Read info about each test below.
• Which test is right for you? Read this helpful article
• Don't forget to have your scores sent to your school.
• Do you need a fee waiver? See your counselor for details.

• College applications are filled out online directly through your college/university's website.
• Keep in mind that most schools charge an application fee. If you need an application fee waiver, please see your counselor for help.
• Be aware of early action and early decision deadlines.  Many of these are as early as Nov 1.   Please check with your college or university for their application deadlines.   This is very important to be admitted, meeting early scholarship deadlines, applying for housing and etc. Click here for more information about Early Action and Early Decision.
• Students who are applying to selective colleges may want to use the Common Application. 
  Please visit with your counselor before using the Common Application.

• If there are supplemental application documents included in the application process, for example counselor recommendation forms or letters of recommendation,  PLEASE GIVE  ADVANCED NOTICE. (2 weeks is customary) to your counselor or your letter writers.  Do not wait until the last minute.
• Please keep in mind that not all college applications will need a letter of recommendation, or have a supplemental form.  Please see your counselor if you need help.

• Request your transcripts to be sent to your college/university immediately AFTER you have submitted your application for admission.
• Submit your transcript request through Family Connections/Naviance.  Read below for instructions.

• How will you pay for college? Read below for resources and help!
• Are you looking for scholarships? Read below for resources and help!
• Don't forget to file your FAFSA! You can do this as early as October 1st!  Read below for resources and help!
• Are you in the A+ program? Visit the A+ page for information to help you pay for college.

• SuperMatch college search: Select from a number of criteria, indicate its level of importance and quickly get a response based on those criteria, including an explanation of the results.
• Colleges I’m Thinking About list: You can add colleges directly to your Colleges I’m Thinking About list or you can use some of the college research tools like SuperMatch and College Search to identify some colleges that might be a good fit for you. By listing colleges that interest you, your counselor can give you some insight into how selective that college may be and if that college would match well to your academic and high school background. During your senior year, you will be able to convert the colleges that you have decided to apply to from your “Colleges I’m thinking about” list to your “Colleges I’m applying to” list.
• Roadtrip Nation content: The Roadtrip Nation interview archive is a digital career exploration tool that enables students to discover new pathways, interests, and ambitions. The archive includes more than 3,500 full-length video interviews chronicling the diverse personal stories of leaders who have turned their interests into their life’s work.
• Resume Builder: Includes quick tips on completing a resume and thinking about future opportunities to help build the resume. 
• Do What You Are survey: Do What You Are is a Meyers-Briggs based personality profile. It reveals information about a student's strengths and blind spots, recommended career paths and college majors, as well as tips for conducting the most effective career search.
• Career Interest Profiler survey: The Career Interest Profiler is an online career interest assessment for students based on Holland's interest codes.

• College Entrance Exam Required by most Colleges
• Sign up at www.actstudent.org
• Park Hill Hosts ACT tests on each test date
• Park Hill High School Code 262-545
• Park Hill Test Center Code 191410
• Cost: $60.00 (No Writing)
• Cost: $80.00 (With Writing)

2021-2022 National Test Dates

• October 23
  • Registration Deadline: September 17
  • Late Registration Deadline (Late Fees Apply): October 1
  • Standby Deadline: October 15
• December 11
  • Registration Deadline: November 5 
  • Late Registration Deadline (Late Fees Apply) Nov. 19
  • Standby Deadline: December 3
• February 12
  • Registration Deadline: January 17
  • Late Registration Deadline (Late Fees Apply): January 21
  • Standby Deadline: February 4
• April 2
  • Registration Deadline: February 25
  • Late Registration Deadline (Late Fees Apply): March 11
  • Standby Deadline: March 25
• June 11
  • Registration Deadline: May 6
  • Late Registration Deadline (Late Fees Apply) May 20
  • Standby Deadline: June 3
• July 16
  • Registration Deadline: June 17
  • Late Registration Deadline (Late Fees Apply): June 24
  • Standby Deadline: July 8

 

ACT Score Reports

For all tests other than the one administered by PHS in October for seniors/March for juniors, students will need to log-in to their ACT account to view them. For more information about this, click here. 

For the ACT given by PHS during the school week (in October) for seniors, paper copies of the score reports will be mailed to students' homes 4-6 weeks after the test is taken. 

Park Hill South High School does not endorse any particular test preparation company or service over another. The school will post information about reputable, high quality programs at its discretion.

• PHS Workshops

  • Park Hill South will host a series of ACT Workshops in October in preparation for the October 23 National ACT. The workshops will details will be announced soon!    
     

• NAVIANCE TEST PREP (free)

  • ACT Test Prep provides proven, engaging courses that help students perform their best on test day. As students take ownership over their learning, they will see how standardized tests can help them reach their goals. Naviance Test Prep is also seamlessly integrated with Naviance to help students be college and career ready, all from one place.  

    ​To access Naviance Test Prep, students must log-in to Naviance. For instructions how to do so, click here. After you log in to Naviance, scroll to the very bottom left corner of the front home page to find the ACT Prep link
     

  • Available through Naviance Student. After you long in to Naviance, scroll to the very bottom left corner of the front home page to find the ACT Prep link. 
     

• Park Hill Community Education ACT Prep Courses

  • Go here to register.
  • Fall ACT Prep Workshop
  • ACT Math Mania Workshop
  • ACT Fast Action
  • How to Reduce Test Anxiety
     

• Prep Resources from act

  • ACT Parent and Student Newsletters: ​Sign up to receive newsletters here
    • Select your class to plan your future
    • Prepare for college and career
    • Achieve success with ACT help
  • ACT Academy 
    • ​Free online learning tool and test practice program designed to help you get the best score possible on the ACT test. To learn more, click here.
  • ACT Academy Instructions PowerPoint
    Take a look at this short PowerPoint helping you navigate the ACT Academy!
  • ACT Free Study Guide click here
  • ACT Question of the Day click here
  • ACT online subject practice Tests click here
  • ​ACT Webinars for students and parents click here
    
     

• Mid-Continent Public Library (free)

  • If students are looking for resources to help prepare for the upcoming ACT on October 23*, Test Prep from Tutor.com is a free tool they can use with their MCPL student account. 
     
    Test Prep's Live Tutor service is open from noon to midnight, seven days a week, and offers one-on-one, online assistance in English and Spanish for topics including SAT, ACT, PSAT, and AP Tests. A free account is required to use test prep.​ Learn more by clicking here.
     

• Kansas State University ACT Prep

  • ​This class consists of two, three-hour virtual sessions covering the four ACT subject tests.  You will gain insight into the test's content and format while learning practical test-taking strategies for maximizing your test scores. ACT’s “Preparing for the ACT” is used in this class in addition to our strategies.  Visit the website for more details.
     

• 2021-2022 Fall Two-Park Virtual Workshop

  • Sunday, Oct. 10 and Sunday, Oct. 17
    5:30-8:30 p.m.
    $75 per student, which covers the cost and mailing of program materials, as well as access to the course itself.
    Register Here

    For more information, visit the Kansas State Website by clicking here.
     

• March 2 Success

  • Free test-taking resource available for students   The U.S. Army Recruiting Command is helping prospective recruits and other students improve their test-taking strategies and math, science and English skills through March2Success, a free Web-based program. With a curriculum designed by Kaplan and Educational Options, Inc., the program is proving successful according to teachers and students using it. Participants may select part of all of the sections offered though March2Success, and are free to repeat lessons. March2Success is available at www.march2success.com. Registrants may request recruiter contact through the site; however, they are not required to do so and will not be contacted without request.
     

• KAPLAN

  • Kaplan provides a variety of test preparation options along with free, practice tests. Kaplan also offers affordable, ACT cram sessions; find out more about those by clicking here. Visit www.kaptest.com for more information. 
     

• COLLEGE TUTORS

  • College Tutors offers individualized and group tutoring for ACT and SAT preparation. This local company also offers a number of other college readiness services like essay writing and study skills. 

• THE TUTORING CENTER

  • "The Tutoring Center offers individualized tutoring taught by our own expert instructors. Our standardized programs provide students with the confidence, skills and test-taking traegies needed to succeed on test day." They often offer free ACT and SAT practice tests, as well. Learn more by visiting their website, www.tutoringcenter.com, or calling 816-781-0000.

     

Fall 2021: The fall 2021 PSAT test is Wednesday, October 13. Register here by October 1.

The PSAT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a test is for sophomores and juniors only.  It is only offered on October 13th, and no other date during the school year. 

​For juniors, it is the test to qualify for National Merit Scholarship designation.  For sophomores, the test is for practice and students will not be eligible for scholarship consideration.  The PSAT is also one criteria used for the selection of sophomore students for the Missouri Scholars Academy. 

In addition to serving as a great preparation tool for students who plan to take the SAT in the future, the PSAT also provides students with AP potential feedback (list of AP courses that might be appropriate for the student based on this test).

Please note: This test is OPTIONAL. If you would like more information, please visit the PSAT website, or contact your student's counselor.

• Why should students take the PSAT/NMSQT?
  • The PSAT offers great preparation for the SAT and any other standardized tests.
    Students who take the PSAT their junior year and meet other program entry requirements may enter the National Merit Scholarship Program. Also, it can give insight into which AP courses you may be ready to take. The PSAT measures the knowledge and skills a student has developed in reading, writing and language and math. Students who take the PSAT will get an online score report. They will receive an overall test score as well as individual section scores. Students will be able to see which answers they got right or wrong. They will also get information on how to improve their academic skills.
• Who should take the PSAT?
  • Typically, students take the PSAT in 10th and 11th grade. Younger students can also take the test to get a head start on improving skills and knowledge needed for success in college and career.
• How many times may a student take each test?
  • Only once a year, but there is no limit to how many years a student may participate. It is important that 11th grade students take the PSAT to enter the National Merit Scholarship Program.
• How should students prepare for the test?
  • Classroom learning is the basis for test questions, so the best way students can prepare is by taking challenging courses and becoming familiar with the test and its format. Students should review the PSAT Student Guide, along with the practice test, to help them understand all the directions and be familiar with the types of questions that will be asked. In addition, students can go to collegeboard.org/psatpractice for free.
• If students don’t do well on the test, will it hurt their chances of getting into college?
  • Absolutely not. Since it provides personalized information on the skills that a student needs to improve and prepare for college, taking the test can even improve their chances. PSAT scores are not sent to colleges.
• When can we expect to see the results from the PSAT? 
  • Score reports will be made available online in mid-December. Schools will receive paper PSAT reports in January. ​​

• When students register to take the PSAT, they will be given a PSAT Student Guide. This guide contains information about the PSAT, test-taking advice and tips and an official practice test. More detailed information regarding the test and additional practice questions can be found here.
• A free PSAT preparation opportunity is offered through Kaplan. Learn more by clicking here.  
• Kaplan also offers PSAT Prep Live-the only FREE, live PSAT prep program available to all students online. Check it out here.
• ZAPS Test Prep Registration
  PHS students may participate in a VIRTUAL ZAPS PSAT Seminar. Cost is $95 with coupon code ParkHillTestPrep. Dates and times available in the registration link above!

• For a list of the test dates, visit SAT's website and click Register.  

• To view your scores, click here. 

SAT Prep

 

• Private/Commercial SAT Prep
• Kaplan SAT Prep: Kaplan provides a variety of test preparation options along with free, practice tests. Kaplan also offers affordable, cram sessions for the SAT Math and Critical Reading tests; find out more about those by clicking here. Visit www.kaptest.com for more information. 
• College Board SAT Prep

 

Thursday, October 7, 2021 at Park Hill South High School. Starts at 8 a.m.

Register here

There are three main types of scholarships:

1. Local Scholarships
2. College Scholarships:  Each college and university has their own scholarships to award to students. Please check with your institution to see what scholarships are available. This information can be found on the school's financial aid website. 
3. National Scholarships: There are thousands of national scholarships available to students. Many of these scholarships go unclaimed every year because no one applies for them. In addition to the scholarships found on Naviance/Family Connection, check out these resources to search for national scholarships:
   • Fastweb
   • Scholarships.com​
   • Scholarships for Students
   • College Scholarships, Colleges and Online Degrees
   • Scholarship Search by Sallie Mae​
   • Open Education Database (scholarships for particular groups, including students of color)
   • College Board Scholarship Search​
   • Finaid.org ​
   • Financialaidinformation.org 

Other Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
  • Many, many local scholarships and applications are listed on the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation’s website. For more information: www.gkccf.org/scholarships
• KC Scholars
  • ATTENTION JUNIORS AND FRESHMEN!
    Check out the KC SCHOLARS program! Scholarship opportunity for YOU! http://www.kcscholars.org
• ​Midwest Student Exchange Program
  • Offers reduced tuition for Missouri Residents attending member, out-of-state colleges and entering specific degree programs. Please visit their website for more information.  
• Missouri Department of Higher Education:
  • Grants and Scholarships
  • ​Access Missouri Program
  • Advanced Placement Incentive Grant
  • Bright Flight Program
  • Kids' Chance Program
  • Marguerite Ross Barnett Program
  • Minority Teaching Scholarship
  • Minority and Underrepresented Environmental Literacy Program
  • Public Service Officer Survivor Grant
  • Wartime Veteran's Survivors Grant
• American Legion
  Scholarship and Financial Aid Information www.legion.org/needalift  
• Aviation Scholarships:
  • The AEA Educational Foundation has awarded more than $1 million to students seeking careers in the aircraft electronics and aviation maintenance industry. Numerous scholarships are available and each range from $1,000 to more than $35,000.  Click here to learn more. For more information:  Aircraft Electronics Association Educational Foundation,  3570 NE Ralph Powell Road,  Lee's Summit, MO 64064   816-347-8400
• Scholarships for Students with Autism:
  • The OAR (Organization for Autism Research) has a wide variety of scholarship resources for students.  Check out the list and other helpful information here. 
• Military Scholarships:
  • Airforce:  www.airforce.com, www.afreserve.com and www.afrotc.com 
  • Army: www.goarmy.com
  • Coast Guard: www.gocoastguard.com  and www.uscg.mil
  • Marines: www.marines.com 
  • Navy: www.navy.com  and www.navalreserve.com 

FAFSA Deadlines:

• October 1: FAFSA opens
• February 1: Early MO priority deadline
• March 1: Some college deadlines
• April 1: Regular MO deadline

Steps: 

1. Get your FAFSA ID
   • Download a FAFSA tip sheet (PDF)
   • Download FAFSA best practices (PDF)
2. File your FAFSA (after October 1)
   • Important things to know about FAFSA

​Resources and Tips 

 

Check out these articles and resources from FastWeb.com

• Credit Cards Tips to Control Credit 
• Dollars and Sense 
• FAFSA Step by Step 
• Money Management Tips
• Quick Guide to Financial Aid 
• ​Scholarship Tips Blog Articles
• Scholarship Guide 
• Scholarship Scams

Other Scholarship and ​Financial Aid News Articles:

• 13 Best Tips for Winning College Scholarships
• Tips to Avoid 7 Common Scholarship Application Pitfalls
• Top 10 Scholarship Tips from Indiana University
• Scholarship Tips from the Minnesota Office of Higher Education
• Financial Literacy from the Missouri Department of Higher Education
• 12 Essential Scholarship Tips for Students, from Campus Explorer​
   

Traditional Scholarship (11th grade students):

You must meet all of the following requirements to apply:

1. Be a current 11th grader during the application cycle;
2. Be home-schooled or attend a public, charter, or private high school in the following 6 counties: Cass, Clay, Jackson and Platte (MO) or Johnson and Wyandotte (KS);
3. Be lawfully present in the U.S. or DACA eligible and DACA applied/approved;
4. Have at least a 2.5 cumulative high school unweighted GPA (5 semesters from 9th grade to the fall semester of 11th grade) or at least a 16 on the ACT or at least an 800 on the SAT); and
5. Be considered low-or modest-income. Your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) calculation on the College Board EFC Calculator must be 12,000 or less. The calculation is based on household income, number of members in the family and number of family members that will be in college at the same time. It is the amount of annual financial support a family can be expected to pay toward the student’s college education.

  
College Savings Account/Match (9th grade students):

Get a head start on saving and planning for college while increasing your odds of enrolling in and completing college. And, you get to learn about investing funds as you increase your odds of college completion!

Each year, up to 500 9th graders will have a 529 college savings account seeded with $50 from KC Scholars. Of these 500 9th graders, at least 50 will be selected for the 4:1 match and incentives program and earn a one-time award of up to $7,000 toward college. Match and incentive participants must enroll in college full-time following high school graduation and remain enrolled full-time at a KC Scholars Post-secondary Network campus while receiving KC Scholars’ funding.

You must meet all of the following requirements to apply:

1. Be a current 9thgrader during the application cycle;
2. Be home-schooled or attend a public, charter, or private high school in the following 6 counties: Cass, Clay, Jackson and Platte (MO) or Johnson and Wyandotte (KS);
3. Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien with a verified permanent U.S. address and valid Social Security number or other taxpayer identification;
4. Have at least a 2.5 cumulative unweighted GPA fall semester of 9th grade;
5. Be considered low- or modest-income. Your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) calculation on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forecaster must be 12,000 or less. The calculation is based on household income, number of members in the family and number of family members that will be in college at the same time. It is the amount of annual financial support a family can be expected to pay toward the student’s college education. You must fill out the Free Online Application for Federal Student Aid forecaster: FAFSA4caster. You will need information regarding you and your family’s income and assets to complete the forecaster. If your Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) on the forecaster is 12,000 or less, you are eligible to apply for KC Scholars. For assistance in completing the FAFSA4caster, KC Scholars has created the following guide: FAFSA4caster. 
6. Freshmen and Juniors:
7. ​Do you qualify for the KC Scholars Scholarship Program? 
8. Determine your eligibility by completing the FAFSA4caster.

​
Freshmen and Juniors, do you qualify for the KC Scholars Scholarship program?

Determine your eligibility by completing the FAFSA4caster.

What is it?
FREE financial aid calculation that gives you an early estimate of your eligibility for student aid
Can help families plan ahead for college

How does KC Scholars use the FAFSA4caster? 
KC Scholars uses the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) calculated on the FAFSA4caster to determine low- and modest-income. The EFC must be $12,000 or less to be eligible to apply for the KC Scholars Scholarship.
EFC is based on income, assets, household size and the number of household members in college at the same time. 

What you need to know to fill out the FAFSA4caster for purposes of the KC Scholars application
Are you Dependent or Independent?
Who is my “parent” on the FAFSA
Age of parent(s)
Household size
# of household members that will be enrolled in college when the KC Scholars scholarship applicant will be enrolled in college
2018 1040 tax return for parent(s); 
Asset information for parent(s) and student – balance of checking/saving accounts, non-retirement investment income, etc. 

Filling out the FAFSA4caster for purposes of the KC Scholars application
To begin, visit FAFSA.ED.GOV 
Enter student information
Answer all questions
 

What is the Scholarship Initiative Program?  
The Park Hill School District has partnered with several area colleges and universities who have agreed to offer various merit based and need based scholarship to participating Park Hill School district seniors.  

Last year, over 300 Park Hill and Park Hill South seniors in the Class of 2020 were offered scholarships!  A total of over $100 million in scholarships were offered by the 20 area participating colleges and universities.

• APPRENTICESHIPS IN KANSAS CITY AREA
  Did you know that a carpenter apprentice in the Kansas City area starts their program with a total salary package, including benefits, of $17-21/hour and that a master carpenter can earn over $45/hour? Apprentices in the trade professions are a viable career option for many students, including those seeking professional careers in the trade industry. For information:  Kansas City and Western Missouri: Apprenticeship Programs - Western Missouri 
   
• ARE YOU INTERESTED IN ENERGY RELATED CAREERS?
  The Association of Energy Services Professionals Foundation recently launched myenergygateway.org to guide students toward an education and meaningful career path in energy.  Developed through a contract with the U.S. Department of Energy, the site provides a comprehensive list of colleges and technical institutions that offer degrees and certifications in alternative energy, energy efficiency, sustainability, green building design and more. Scholarships, internships, job options and an extensive industry resource list are also included.  Check out www.myenergygateway.org. 
   
• BEAUTY SCHOOLS DIRECTORY
  http://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com   Search by location or by desired program. Contact one school or multiple schools. Beauty Schools Directory makes it easy to weigh your options, compare schools, and choose the right program for you. Plus, we offer hundreds of articles and interviews with professionals in the biz, so you can get a glimpse of what it’s like working in the industry, and stay up-to-date on the latest news and changes in cosmetology licensing.
   
• BECOME A HEALTHCARE EXECUTIVE
  Healthcare is one of today’s most dynamic and growing fields, with a wide range of opportunities and challenges. This Internet resource guide will assist you in exploring a career in the healthcare management field and provide you with information so that you can make a more informed career decision.   While medical personnel are the frontline of any healthcare organization, there are other healthcare professionals in whom patients invest their trust and hope—even though they’re not always aware of who these people are or the roles they play. These professionals are healthcare executives (also called healthcare administrators and healthcare managers). They are the men and women who manage today’s hospital and healthcare organizations.  LEARN MORE BY VISITING THEIR WEBSITE
   
• BUILDERS' TRAINING CENTER - in NKC!!
  The Kansas City Training Center is located just north of downtown Kansas City in a building provided by the Builders’ Association.  The carpenter’s trade is a blanket term used for the numerous skills performed by the trades people in our union. Throughout its history the Carpenters’ Union has developed many specialty trades, and the Training Fund/JATC offers apprenticeships in each and offers every member the opportunity for continued training. The apprenticeship program for the carpenter, millwright, floor layer, lather, pile driver, and cabinetmaker accept applications every Tuesday and Thursday starting at 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. 
   
• ​CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE 
  Watch their informational videos here - CLICK HERE
   
• FLOWER CLASSROOM - Take classes to become a floral designer!
  Explore floral design in a fun and creative space. Working with FLOWERS is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. Come into the classroom and you will learn more than you can imagine....feel confident to take the skills you've learned to the next level. Looking for a career change.... The Explore Floral Design Class in 10 days will certify you for a design position, or enjoy your newly found talent in you own home.  This training is required for job placement in either a traditional florist or supermarket retailer.   For more information:  http://flowerclassroom.blogspot.com/    For more information, please call 913-708-2988  flowerclassroom@gmail.com
   
• CAREER IN INSURANCE
  MyPath provides a website for student who might be interested in an insurance related career. Here is the link to an informative article.  Here is the website for more information and resources about careers in the insurance industry.   
   
• COURT REPORTER TRAINING
  Court reporters create word-for-word transcriptions at trials, depositions, and other legal proceedings. Some court reporters provide captioning for television and real-time translation for deaf or hard-of-hearing people at public events, in business meetings, or in classrooms.  The median annual wage for court reporters was $51,320 in May 2016.  Many community colleges and technical institutes offer post-secondary certificate programs for court reporters. Court reporters typically receive a few weeks of on-the-job training. Many states require court reporters who work in legal settings to have a state license or a certification from a professional association.  Learn more about COURT REPORTING here.  Check out the Court Reporting Institute of Kansas City in Overland Park! Details here
   
• KANSAS CITY ZOO VOLUNTEENS
  Are you a teenager that is interested in animals, conservation, and nature?  Learn more about what goes on at a Zoo while meeting other local teens and having a positive impact on your community.  Interested?  Find more information at:  www.kansascityzoo.org/volunteen  or contact them at teen volunteer@fotzkc.org
   
• MISSOURI HEALTH CAREERS
  Careers in health care are stable, rewarding jobs.  Some are in direct patient care, others in a lab, and still others are in management or administration.  What is important to remember is that jobs in health care continue to be in demand - even in a slower growth economy.  The Missouri Hospital Association offers a career website that has the latest information about health care careers and educational programs.  Visit MISSOURIHEALTHCAREERS.COM
   
• NKC PLASTERER & CEMENT MASON APPRENTICESHIPS
  PLASTERER APPRENTICESHIPS & CEMENT MASONS APPRENTICESHIPS
  ​Must be 18 and have a diploma. Applications accepted on the first and third Mondays of each month from 8 am – noon at the Builders’ Training Center at 105 W. 12th Ave. in North KC, MO. Questions, call Brian Randle at 816-595-4132 or 816-595-4147.
   
• STATE & NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIPS
  The U.S. Department of Labor’s Registered Apprenticeship program allows individuals to work and earn a paycheck – while learning skills and earning the certifications that employers want. Registered Apprenticeship provides more than 500,000 apprentices across the U.S. with industry-specific education, on-the-job training, nationally recognized certifications, and guaranteed wage increases.   
  
  How much does it cost? It depends on the employer. Some programs require apprentices to pay for their equipment, while other employers cover these costs.   What are the minimum requirements?  Be at least 16 years old, Have a high school diploma or GED, Be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residency status, Pass an entrance exam, Be able to physically perform the occupational tasks, Some employers have additional requirements, such as fair aptitude tests and interviews, passing school grades, and previous work experience. 
  
  To find out more about Registered Apprenticeship programs in your area, call your state office or visit www.doleta.gov/oa.  CLICK HERE FOR A BROCHURE
   
• UMKC DENTAL SCHOOL SHADOWING
  The UMKC Dental School has opportunities available for students to perform shadowing and visit opportunities.  To schedule a visit, call Director of Dental Admissions 816-235-2094.  Visit their website
  ​ http://dentistry.umkc.edu
  
   
• Information on Missouri job opportunities, career centers, job placement centers, and trainings/workshops.  For more information: https://jobs.mo.gov/
   
• Explore a wide variety of jobs and career information.  Research important statistics and data provided by the federal government.  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
   
• Missouri Connections is a comprehensive, online, career development and planning program that is provided free of charge to all Missouri citizens. Funded by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, this program supports the career development efforts of schools, community organizations, and adult job seeker programs. Missouri Connections helps individuals learn about their talents, skills, and interests and makes the connection between planning for continued education and the work world.  For more information:  https://portal.missouriconnections.org/

​NWMO AHEC CAREER ENHANCEMENT SCHOLARS - ACES 
ACES is a comprehensive career planning and assistance program for high school sophomores through college students who wish to be the best prepared candidates for competitive healthcare degree programs and hope to join the Missouri healthcare workforce. Over the course of the program, students are expected to engage in workshops, skill building, shadowing, service, academic learning and career planning with the support of AHEC staff. The minimum expectation is 40 hours per year; most ACES exceed the minimum standards. View more information on ACES Program Content and Workshops.  To be eligible for the NWMO ACES program, complete a Jumpstart your Healthcare Career event with a local AHEC Recruitment Coordinator.  Jumpstart events are held throughout the year. To request an application or more information, email nwmoahec@mymlc.com or call 816-271-6769.  Thanks to local support, the northwest Missouri fees are $60 for a Jumpstart and $250 for each full year of ACES high school activity. College students pay $100 per year, plus workshop/supplies fees.  Scholarships and sponsorships are available. The fees cover workshop supplies, specimens, meals, access to learning modules, personal career planning, and more. Additional fees for travel to a professional school or event, such as a medical school or an overnight student conference, may be requested.  

​For more information about NWMO AHEC

NWMO AHEC PIPELINE WORKSHOPS
High school students, college students and adults may join the Northwest Missouri AHEC Pipeline to attend career exploration workshops. To find out about our programs, check with your school counselor or contact a NWMO AHEC Recruitment Coordinator.

NWMO AHEC SHADOWING OPPORTUNITIES
NWMO AHEC staff provides assistance for students who want to shadow in a healthcare setting. Contact a NWMO AHEC Recruitment Coordinator to learn more about shadowing opportunities in the region. Complete the online training and download the AHEC shadowing packet at Job Shadowing.

NWMO AHEC PIPELINE
​Hey, HS Students! Are you interested in healthcare or medical career areas? Check out the Northwest Missouri AHEC Pipeline. They have partnered with Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, MO. The program is designed for students that are interested in healthcare careers and they offer once a month workshops where a different health career is highlighted. They have professionals from these areas come and speak about what they do on a daily basis, the education they received, and students will do hands on activities related to that particular career. These workshops are open to any high school student and there is no cost to attend. Most of the workshops will take place at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.

High school students, college students and adults may join the Northwest Missouri AHEC Pipeline to attend career exploration workshops. To find out about our programs, check with your school counselor or contact a NWMO AHEC Health Professions Coordinator. Register for the Pipeline by submitting the participant form and parent consent form.