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Week 26: March 9, 2026

How to Get the Most Out of a College Fair
■ Take along a pen and a small notebook.
■ Take a bag to carry the brochures you pick up.
■ Complete Strive Scan registration or Print out some address labels with your name, address, phone number, email address, high school and year of graduation. Spend your time at the college tables asking questions, not filling out contact cards!
■ When you arrive, check out the floor plan and find out where the tables for your top choice colleges are located so you can go directly to them.
■ Write your most important questions down in advance so you don’t forget them.
■ Check on whether any information sessions, such as financial aid, are being offered. Interested? Budget your time accordingly.
■ Jot down notes about a college while your memory is fresh, such as right after visiting the table.
■ Pick up the business cards of any representatives you talk to, so you can contact them if you have any more questions.
After you get home
■ Make a point of going through the materials and your notes within one week after the fair. You’ll probably remember more about your conversations with college representatives while the memories from the fair are still fresh.
■ Follow up with any college that interests you by contacting the admission office to ask further questions, and, if possible, plan a visit to the campus
Summer Programs
Summer Camps at University of Kansas
Students can take advantage of several camp opportunities at KU this summer.
Design Camp
Pharmacy Camp
Engineering Camp
Global Youth Academy
Reynolds Young Writers Workshop
Every summer for nearly three decades, talented high school juniors and seniors to-be have been welcomed to The Hill in Granville, Ohio at Denison University to participate in an eight-day residential program that incorporates small creative writing workshops, group sessions with Denison creative writing faculty and notable visiting writers, and much more. Only 48 students get the chance to come to The Hill to participate each June. That means students experience small, intimate writing workshops and one-on-one interactions with people who have made writing their career. It's a great way to connect with a close-knit community of writing teachers, mentors, and peers from around the world.
This is your students' chance to work with award-winning authors whose work has appeared in publications like The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and SB Nation; who have published books; who care deeply about storytelling; and who love to teach.
The program runs from June 19 to June 28, 2026. Financial assistance is available to families who qualify, and information about the program is online at reynolds.denison.edu. Applications must be submitted no later than March 3, at 11:59pm.
Summer Leaders Experience (SLE)
The United States Military Academy at West Point is excited to offer your rising seniors (current juniors) the a rigorous five-day, overnight immersion led entirely by current West Point cadets. SLE offers an authentic look at cadet life and challenges students academically, militarily, physically, and socially. Participants will experience:
- Hands-on academic workshops: Choose from 17 sessions taught by West Point faculty.
- Physical and military training: Army PT workouts, obstacle courses (indoor and outdoor), the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), and more.
- Leadership and character development: Team-building exercises, the Leader Reaction Course, ethics discussions, and cadet-led activities.
Check out the SLE 2025 VIDEO to learn more about the experience.
Students can choose between three SLE sessions:
- Session 1: May 30 – June 3
- Session 2: June 5 – June 9
- Session 3: June 11 – June 15
Applications for SLE open on February 15, and selections will be made on a rolling basis starting March 15. When high school students submit this application, it also completes the first part of the West Point application process. Ideal candidates will demonstrate academic excellence, leadership within their community, and a readiness to take on physical challenges.
West Point provides scholarships to cover the $495 SLE fee and travel expenses for students with documented financial need.
Learn more here: West Point Summer Leaders Experience
Apply to SLE: SLE Application
Please share this opportunity widely with rising seniors and their families—early applications are strongly encouraged. Thank you for helping connect exceptional young leaders with this transformative experience.
Fir Acres Writing Workshop is a premier residential summer creative writing program, held from June 21–July 4, 2026, for rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade high school students. Sixty students from across the country come together for two weeks to write and join a community of writers on the beautiful, wooded campus of Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon.
In daily workshops, participants study great writing and produce their own under the guidance of dynamic, thoughtful, published faculty. At night, participants gather to socialize, meet and hear from distinguished visiting writers, and work on their own poetry, fiction, and creative prose. Apply here
Yale Global Diplomacy Summer Programme 2026 by Yale International Relations Association (YIRA)
Immerse yourself in a transformative journey meticulously designed to empower young leaders, foster cross-cultural understanding, and equip students with the tools to make a meaningful global impact. Guided by Yale mentors and alumni, students will sharpen their leadership skills, broaden their worldview, and build lifelong networks within one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
What Will Participants Gain?
- Rigorous Academic Engagement – Learn directly from Yale mentors through sessions in leadership, diplomacy, public speaking, conflict resolution, and policy writing.
- Global Impact Challenge – Collaborate in teams to tackle pressing world issues and present innovative solutions to peers and mentors.
- Exclusive Cultural Immersion – Explore Yale’s historic campus, museums, and landmarks, while connecting with peers through cultural exchanges and community-building activities.
- Mentorship & Networking – Small-group mentor circles, fireside conversations with Yale alumni, and networking opportunities designed to inspire future academic and professional pathways.
- Certificate of Completion – Awarded by the Yale International Relations Association, recognizing your achievement and leadership potential.
The Yale Experience
- Venue: Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Dates: May 25 to 29, 2026
- Eligibility: Grades 8 to 12
- Cohort Size: Limited to 50 students globally
- Meals & Accommodations: Daily lunch will be provided as part of the programme. Students are responsible for arranging and covering their own accommodation.
- Programme Fee:
- Early Bird Fee: 1500 USD (valid until 28th February 2026)
- Regular Fee: 1800 USD
(Fee covers the academic program, mentor sessions, campus activities, and lunch on all program days. Accommodation, visa, and travel costs are not included.)
Applications are now open, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the limited cohort size, early applications are strongly encouraged.
Program Page: https://www.learnwithleaders.com/camps/yale-diplomacy-summercamp/
Apply Here: https://forms.gle/JwyJovycfQESQghp9
Programme Brochure: Click Here
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to able part of the first Yale Global Diplomacy Summer Programme by YIRA, where only 50 students will represent their countries and cultures on a global stage. Spaces are limited, and the opportunity to be among the founding cohort of this historic program is right here!
LaTEENa Conference
Adelante Mujer, Inc. is hosting their LaTEENa Conference for high school scholars as well as their Advanced Leadership Symposium for undergraduate and early-career professionals. Both of these events will be on Saturday, March 7th, in Denver. Registration Links: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2025-lateena-conference https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2026-advanced-leadership-symposium
Denver Center for Performing Arts Education Sessions
Registration for the Spring & Summer DCPA Education session is currently open. Have a look at our catalogs, find a course that speaks to your student/s, and enroll now to lock in your preferred class times and dates.
Spring classes begin on a rolling basis starting April 4, and summer classes begin June 15.
COLLEGE
COLLEGE VISITS 2026 (JUNIORS and SOPHOMORES START NOW!)
- 3/9/26 10:00am University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
- 3/9/26 12:30pm University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS
- 3/31/26 1:00pm Baylor University Waco, TX
Please stop by post grad to sign up (or follow the link in Naviance) to attend so that I can call you out of class, if the visit is not during your lunch/off period.
Tips for Students when meeting with Reps:
- Do your research ahead of time
- Introduce yourself
- Be attentive
- Keep cellphones and headphones in your backpack/pocket
- Ask thoughtful questions
- Say thank you
LAUNCH
Cornell University, Emory University, Pomona College, Rice University and Washington University in St. Louis are proud to present LAUNCH (Linking Access, Unity, Networking, Collaboration and Higher Education). As your student continues their college search, we invite you to join LAUNCH partners to hear more about our distinctive learning opportunities and dynamic communities. Admission officers from our five schools will host a virtual session to discuss: Each of our schools is unique, but we are united in our commitment to support students and families in making informed decisions about applying to college. At the end of the program, you will have a chance to participate in a live Q&A with the presenters. Register for one of our upcoming virtual events.
College of Engineering, Design and Computing at University of Colorado, Denver
There are several opportunities for your students to learn more about our College of Engineering programs. Prospective students could sign up for our monthly virtual info sessions where they can talk to a current engineering student and one of our admissions experts. Or they could request a tour of our college to experience first hand our state-of-the-art labs and meet with faculty and engineering students.
Virtual information sessions
College Tours (individual or group tours)
2026 Colorado Rockies College Fair, STEM Day and Business of Baseball
· Tickets start at $12 for most games.
· Click Here for full schedule, pricing, and additional details.
College Tours Online
No time to visit campus in person? Try watching The College Tours. Each episode of the award-winning TV series shares the story of a single college or university through the authentic lens of its current students. Learn from real students about their real experiences on campus. This TV series is a comprehensive guide to aid your college research, helping you answer the ultimate question: ‘Which college is best for me?’ Take the ultimate campus tour now by watching episodes of this informative TV series. The College Tour at High Point University
SENIORS!
As you receive your college acceptance letters, please let me know of any scholarship offers you receive. And that means EVERY scholarship offered....even if you don't accept the award. We report the total amount offered to our seniors. When you receive award letters, please forward the email, bring it in, snap a picture or email a typed summary....however it is easiest for you to send me the notification of the offer so that we can update our system.
- This includes any scholarship offered to you: need based, academic, athletic, etc.
- Please include the name of the scholarship, the total amount of $$ awarded and indicate if it is a one time scholarship or for all four years.
- Specific information (names, amounts) will not be published. The total $$ earned will be announced during our Honors Convocation ceremony in May and reported to the district.
- Please reach out with any questions you might have!
CIEE Gap Year Abroad
A successful college career begins with CIEE Gap Year Abroad! A growing number of recent high school graduates are choosing to defer college for a semester or year, and research shows that taking a gap year offers multiple benefits, including improved graduation rates, stronger GPAs, and more fulfilling careers after college. On CIEE European Tour Programs students immerse themselves in three iconic European cities, alongside a small cohort of CIEE students, and expand their understanding of history, art, politics, cuisine, and culture through carefully selected lectures, cultural activities, and excursions.
Apply to 2026 CIEE College First Year Abroad or Gap Year Abroad program by Friday, May 1, and be automatically entered to win a free flight in our College Decision Countdown Giveaway.
Want to boost your chances? Apply early:
- March 1 = 3 entries
- April 1 = 2 entries
- May 1 = 1 entry
CU’s TRiO Student Support Services
CU’s TRiO Student Support Services (TRiO SSS) is a comprehensive and holistic academic excellence program for first-generation, low-income, veteran and disabled students. We cultivate each student’s sense of community, achievement, and leadership while valuing their individuality and unique needs. TRiO SSS strives to maximize student involvement and success in CU’s academic community through mentorship, academic programs, and one-on-one counseling.
We also provide:
Peer Mentors
Free Tutoring
Smaller class sizes (provided by Student Academic Success Center)
Lounges and Private Study Rooms
Career, Financial and community building workshops
We will be admitting 25 incoming freshman that meet our requirements and are interested in participating in our Summer Ready program. We serve undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who meet at least one or more of the following criteria:
First-Generation - neither parent graduated from a four-year college in United States
- qualify as low-income under federal income guidelines.
have a documented disability on-file with CU's Office of Disability Services.
Is a US Veteran
In addition to the above criteria, we also serve students who:
foster youth, unaccompanied, and/or independent status; (Guardian Scholars)
Mckinney Vento designation
FosterEd Student (part of the foster care system by the age of 13)
Are homeless; (Guardian Scholars)
How to Apply: TRiO SSS 2026-2027 Application due: March 22nd, 2026.Students who apply by the deadline will be put in consideration for a LEADS Scholarship if selected for TRiO SSS.
My Journey 2026
- ACT's "My Journey" is a free series of live and on-demand webinars designed for high school students and families to navigate college planning, admissions, and career readiness. Led by Collegewise experts, these sessions cover topics like building application roadmaps, finding scholarships, and selecting colleges.
Don’t worry if you can’t make it on time. Your registration includes a recording of the event delivered straight to your inbox.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Start planning which scholarships you may want to apply for:
- Check the Scholarship website on the HRHS website for scholarships and scholarship search engines to help you find scholarships that meet your qualifications.
- I update scholarships that are sent to HRHS seeking potential applicants weekly. It is sorted by application due date.
- I will also post some in this newsletter
University of Northern Colorado STEM Scholarships
Scholarships to Empower Student Success in the Natural Sciences (S4) Program at UNC.
As an S4 Scholar, students receive:
Up to $15,000 per year for up to four years
A Summer Bridge Program designed to help students begin their first year with confidence
Faculty and peer mentoring to support students throughout their academic journey
Research and internship opportunities that strengthen academic and career preparation
STEM workshops and events that build skills, community, and professional networks
Eligible students include:
Prospective UNC students majoring in: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Climate Science, Environmental Earth Sciences, Computer Science, Data Science and Statistics
Students with demonstrated financial need (must be Pell-eligible)
Motivated, curious learners eager to explore, grow, and lead in STEM disciplines
Important application dates:
Final Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
Outstanding Youth Award of Lone Tree Applications Open
Do you know a young leader making a difference in Lone Tree? The Lone Tree Youth Commission, in partnership with the City, is now accepting applications for the 2026 Outstanding Youth of Lone Tree Award. This annual award recognizes eighth–twelfth grade students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, community involvement, and personal achievement. The selected recipient will be honored by the Mayor and City Council at a City Council meeting and receive a $1,000 cash prize. Applications are open now through March 13, 2026. View full eligibility requirements and apply today online>>
Tom Sylva Memorial Scholarship
In loving memory of Tom Sylva, whole life was marked by compassion, joy, and dedication to others, this scholarship is awarded to a student who embodies the spirit Tom carried so effortlessly. Applicants will complete the attached application and submit to tomsylvafoundation@gmail.com by 3/16/26!
Applicants should demonstrate:
A sincere commitment to pursuing a career in medicine or healthcare, especially sports medicine or athletic training
A kind and generous spirit, reflected through community service or mentorship
An accumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher
A graduating senior of Douglas County School District
AAFCU Foundation Scholarship
Air Academy Credit Union (AACU) is NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS for its 2026 AAFCU Foundation Scholarship Program! AACU established the Air Academy Federal Credit Union Foundation in 2002, to promote financial education and wellness within the community. In the spirit of the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People," the Foundation scholarship aims to promote education and lifelong financial responsibility. The scholarship program promotes high school students to unlock their potential and encourage growth! Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded on a competitive basis to high school seniors. All majors are accepted. Scholarship recipients are chosen based on academic merit, application questions, essay response, and community involvement. Awarded scholarships will be sent directly to the student's accredited institution.
Qualifications:
- High School Senior
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Eligible to attend a 2- or 4-year college or university
- Applicant will enroll and attend an accredited institution in the academic year after selection
- One of the following applies:
- Applicant has a parent who is an AACU member or Applicant is a current AACU member themselves or Applicant is enrolled in one of our 15 school districts
- Applications will be accepted through March 27, 2026.
PEO Scholarship
The qualifications for the scholarship are:
- A graduating female senior from an accredited Douglas or Arapahoe County high school
- A citizen of the United States of America (proof will be required when the selected woman is chosen)
- Acceptance to an accredited educational institution of higher learning or a post-high school training school or program in either the United States of America or Canada
- A minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Completed application package (see page 2)
Deadlines:
- Monday, March 21, 2026 – ALL Application materials due to Ms. Dannen at PEOHighlandsRanch@gmail.com (Please note additional steps and form(s) will be required at later dates of the selected candidate.)
- May 1, 2026 – Our Chapter IF Scholarship Committee completes selection of candidates for review by the International P.E.O. Foundation
- After July 1, 2026 and before December 1, 2026– Funds will be available from the International P.E.O. Foundation to the student's accepting institution.
2026 Law Day Essay Contest
From the nation's earliest days, the promise of America has been rooted in the idea that all people are equal under the law. The 2026 Law Day theme, "The Rule of Law and the American Dream," highlights how our constitutional framework protects the rights and freedoms that allow each person to pursue their own path. By ensuring that no one is above the law, our system promotes fairness, stability, and opportunity. This year, we invite students to consider how the rule of law helps turn aspirations into reality. Essay Question – All entries must address the prompt: Essay entries should reflect the student’s interpretation of the 2026 Law Day theme by responding to one of the following prompts: 2026 Law Day Essay Contest Page
1) How does the rule of law protect individual rights and ensure that everyone has a fair chance to pursue the American Dream?
2) What challenges threaten the rule of law today, and how might those challenges affect opportunities for future generations?
3) What responsibilities do citizens have to help uphold the rule of law, and how do those responsibilities support the American Dream?
Come by post grad for an entry form. The deadline for entries is Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 5 p.m.
Kit Faragher Foundation
For 2025 the Kit Faragher Foundation will offer three $12,000 scholarships to graduating Colorado high school seniors, with one of those scholarships dedicated to a graduating senior from a Montrose County High School due to the generosity of that community during our fundraisers there over the past several years. These scholarships will support high school seniors who have earned cumulative 2.5 GPAs, are in strong need of financial assistance for college, university or technical school, and who demonstrate positive attitudes, strong commitments and drives towards accomplishment. The applications for 2025 are now available! The application deadline is Friday, April 17, 2026, 5:00 P.M.
Colorado Senior Scholarship Program and Student View Scholarship Program
The Student-View Scholarship is a unique opportunity for high school seniors.
It is open to all students regardless of academic achievement or financial need.
Student Insights will award the following prizes: (Select your state below to apply)
- One (1) individual prize of a $10,000 scholarship.
- Two (2) individual prize of a $1,000 scholarship.
- Three (3) individual prizes, consisting of $500 scholarships each
It is exceptionally easy to apply:
* NO minimum SAT or ACT score
* NO minimum grade point average
* NO lengthy, time-consuming paperwork
* NO essays
* NO application fee
Simply complete a 15-25 minute online survey about local colleges. You will then be automatically entered into a random drawing for a scholarship award.
Colorado Garden Foundation
This scholarship offered by Colorado Garden Foundation is a four-year full-ride scholarship available to an incoming freshman resident from Colorado at a publicly funded Colorado college or university. Applicants must be majoring in one of these fields of study: • Agriculture Business • Agriculture Education • Horticulture • Floriculture • Landscape Architecture • Botany • Plant Biology • Plant Pathology/Science • Nursery & Landscape Management • Environmental Horticulture • Agronomy. Applications must be mailed and received by the Colorado Garden Foundation office by March 15th. No applications received after that date will be considered.
George C. Evans Post 103 Scholarship
If you are a student living in the Littleton Post Service Area (South of Hampden, Ave, West of I-25 and NE of C470) and are a descendent of a Veteran, you qualify to apply for the $5,000 George C. Evans Post 103 Scholarship. Please email Mrs. Sadler for details. April 9 deadline.
Road Home Exteriors Scholarship
The Road Home Exteriors Scholarship was created to honor local high school seniors in the Denver Metro area who truly live out our company motto: Do What Is Expected, Then Do More. We believe in rewarding students who go above and beyond - whether in academics, leadership, community service, or personal growth. As a locally owned company committed to integrity and excellence in every roofing, siding, and window project, we’re proud to invest in the next generation of leaders who share those same values. This scholarship reflects our dedication to both our craft and our community. The scholarship is divided between four chosen applicants who best exemplify our motto: Do What Is Expected, Then Do More.
Sachs Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships
The Sachs Foundation is now accepting applications for our Undergraduate Scholarship, supporting Black students in Colorado with $10,000 per year for up to four years of full-time study. Eligibility requirements: • Identify as Black • Have Colorado residency for at least three years • Be a graduating senior from a Colorado high school. All students who fit the criteria are encouraged to apply.
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Your full high school transcript
- Two letters of recommendation from persons not related to you
- A one-page personal statement and an additional essay response (350-500 words)
- Your Student Aid Report (SAR). You can obtain your SAR by filling out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if you haven’t already done so, at www.fafsa.gov
- Information from your household’s latest tax return
- An additional educational, artistic, or professional file personal to you (optional)
Please note: Completed applications, with all materials, must be received by the Sachs Foundation by March 15th. Letters of Recommendation must be received by March 31st. Applications submitted past the deadline will not be considered. Any incomplete or incorrect statement will directly impact any consideration of your scholarship application.
Students who are identified as finalists for a scholarship will be notified in late April. Finalists will be required to attend a program in Colorado Springs in June. Final approval of an award will be made at that time.
TESTING
Digital SAT practice is free and available to all students through the Bluebook™ testing app. Students can take a full-length digital practice test, view their results, and get linked to additional instructional materials, resources, and lessons on Official Digital SAT Prep on Khan Academy®.
TUTORING
There are several tutors hoping to help students with various subjects or testing. A list can be found on the post grad website.
HRHS NHS Tutoring
This is available for free in the Library every Access period, after school Mon-Thurs from 2:45-3:30, before school on silver days from 7:15-8:10!
Students sign up online for tutoring using this google form: Sign up for NHS Tutoring
What kind of help can you get from a tutoring session?
One-on-One tutoring session -- specific skill or assignment
A study buddy -- study and review for a test
A homework helper -- while you work on your homework
A writing coach -- organize your thoughts/edit your written work
A reading buddy -- help you with your assigned reading
VOLUNTEER
General Reminder: All seniors need to complete and turn in 20 hours of community service. Your completed hours are posted on your unofficial transcript. Need ideas?
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science Guest Engagement Volunteer program. Students will have the opportunity to volunteer at the information desk, ticket scanning and greeting, while creating a friendlier and more convenient Museum space by serving as gallery guides and performing wayfinding assignments during special events and programs.
- The Aspen Effect offers leadership and volunteer services hours through Ranch Hand Jobs. Visit www.theaspeneffect.org to sign up (limited spaces).
MILITARY
Campus Visits in Commons
Army:
- March 10 College Fair
US Air Force:
- March 10 College Fair
Marines:
- March 10 College Fair
- March 10 College Fair
6th Annual West Point Leadership & Ethics Conference of Colorado
The West Point Societies of Denver and the Pikes Peak Region (C. Springs) cordially invite you and your school to attend the 6th Annual West Point Leadership & Ethics Conference of Colorado. The one-day conference for high school juniors (rising seniors) will be held from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm on Friday, 10 April at the auditorium and classroom facilities of Fellowship Denver - 1990 South Broadway, Denver CO 80210.
Instructional materials, snacks, and lunch are provided free of charge – there is no cost to attend our event. Specific agenda and parking details will be provided at a later date to conference attendees.
Similar to community outreach programs being held this spring across the US, our WPLEC program is designed for current high school juniors who are emerging leaders among their peers. Your deliberately selected students will return to their school and communities armed with an expanded understanding of ethics and leadership philosophies that successful women and men will employ throughout their high school, college, and adult lives. The curriculum is designed for top academic performers and those individuals across your student body in leadership roles who are interested in further education and careers in community engagement, public policy, or public service. Past participants have occupied lead roles in high school as you might find within your student government, elective/club & extracurricular activities, national honor societies, and/or sports programs. Our featured keynote speaker is still to be determined, but a short introduction video of a recent seminar can be seen here.
The majority of students sign up individually with parental consent.
Sign up below. If this hard link does not work, then copy and paste URL into your browser.
https://sallyport.westpointaog.org/networks/events/201183
If you have any questions, contact Jace Johnson '81, former VP, West Point Society of Denver, at 720.428.0196 or at jacerwjohnson@gmail.com
HONORING SERVICE MEMBERS
To honor the dedication and bravery of former HRHS students serving in the military, we have a recognition wall for service members at HRHS. If you know of a former student enlisted with the military, I would like to include them in our display case. It is an opportunity for our school community to express gratitude and support for these individuals. Please email me the contact info and I can reach out to them to include their name, branch of the military and a photo/write up if available.
Follow the HRHS Postgrad Instagram Page!