College Admissions & Post-High School Planning

For a comprehensive description of the college process through Staples High School see the Guide to Post-High School Planning and College Applications. 

The Staples High School Counseling Department follows a developmentally appropriate post-high school planning timeline, starting in ninth and tenth grade with introductory programs in classrooms, small groups, and individual conversations between students and their school counselors. In December of junior year, students participate in group activities including learning how to perform a college search. In January, we hold our College Planning Night for Juniors and Families covering various aspects of the search and application process, then in the spring Finding Your Path: Exploring Post-High School Options for students considering two-year colleges, technical schools, gap year programs, the military, and other post-high school possibilities.

Juniors and their families are encouraged to schedule an appointment to meet with their school counselor second semester. These meetings typically include the following: reviewing the transcript, graduation requirements, and senior year course selection; developing an appropriate standardized test schedule; and discussing college and career goals. Knowing that college is not the immediate next step for all students, we may discuss options such as employment, the military, a gap year, or PG year. Juniors attend various workshops and group activities with school counselors in the spring to follow up on the post-high school planning process and tasks that would be beneficial for students to complete prior to the start of senior year.

Early in September of senior year, students receive information explaining the college application, teacher recommendation, counselor recommendation, and transcript request process. Parents receive the same information in a morning presentation. While specific details are presented at that time, instructions and all required forms are available on the SHS Counseling Department website and can be worked on over the summer between junior and senior years.

We offer two evening programs geared toward financial aid and financial fit in the college selection process, first in January for underclassmen followed by September of senior year at the time of filing financial aid applications. We hold a College Admission Testing Presentation with a local test prep agency and college admission panels with representatives from a variety of institutions every year. We also hold a program for student-athletes, visual and performing arts students, and students with disabilities. Spark Your Future is a career exploration series featuring career development professionals and Staples alumni working in various fields. 

Be sure to check our calendar and resources page in addition to the pages listed to the left.