Do you recall the words that used to appear on the side view mirror of all cars?

“Objects in mirror are closer than they appear”

Perhaps the quote for parents and students should read: “Warning: Graduation is closer than it appears.” As your students settle in to high school, it’s easy to assume that you have plenty of time to prepare for graduation, but ask any parent who has had a recent graduate and they will all tell you the same thing: “It went by so fast. Before I knew it, my child was graduating.”

CCA’s mission statement says that we “assist parents in equipping their students academically, physically, and spiritually so that they can experience God’s best for their lives.” One of the ways that CCA assists parents is in preparing students for college and a career. This blog will discuss some ways that CCA assists you and your student in preparing for graduation and also some things that you, as a parent, can do to help your student prepare for graduation.

How does CCA assist my student in college readiness?

  • Begins tracking college readiness in 8th grade with the PSAT 8/9. College readiness is tracked through 11th grade and students have opportunities to improve scores with personalized practice through Khan Academy (see link below).
  • Serves as a PSAT/SAT testing center, so that students can test on campus in an environment in which they are familiar and comfortable.
  • Participates in the ASVAB Career Exploration Program facilitated by the US Military (for more information see link below)
  • Offers an advanced, rigorous course of study including AP and dual enrollment classes through Gaston College.
  • Invites Christian colleges into our school to meet with students and keep the college discussion at the front of students’ minds.
  • Provides individual meetings with the guidance office beginning second semester of the sophomore year.
  • Allows juniors/seniors 2 excused absences/year for college visits.
  • Invites groups such as the BJU Math team to provide Test Prep sessions for students.

How can you assist your student in college readiness?

  • Start the college conversation early and keep it going.
  • Plan and attend college visits with your student.
  • Discuss a variety of careers with your student and emphasize your student’s strengths.
  • Encourage your student to take the most rigorous courses possible. Don’t let them take the easy way out.
  • Encourage students to practice for upcoming readiness tests using test prep websites (see links below).
  • Pray with your students about the future and encourage them to follow God’s leading in their lives.

CCA wants to assist you in any way possible. We want to see your students succeed and experience God’s best in their lives. Please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs. Aimee Dillard with any questions or concerns you have regarding planning and preparing for college and career.

Additional resources for college preparation: