PDS Counseling Newsletter

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It’s hard to believe, but we’re officially in the home stretch of the school year! This time of year can feel like a sprint-- final projects, tests, EOCs/AP exams, and a lot of deadlines all at once. It’s also when motivation can dip and stress can rise, even for students who have been doing well all year. If that’s how you’re feeling, you’re not alone.

The good news is that there’s still plenty of time to make meaningful progress. A few strong weeks can boost grades, build confidence, and set you up for a smoother transition into summer (and next year). Now is the time to stay consistent: check grades regularly, turn in missing work as soon as possible, ask teachers about deadlines or retake opportunities, and use supports like tutoring, Flex time, and counseling check-ins if you need them.

Let’s finish the year with focus and intention. You’ve worked hard to get here! 💙

🟦9th Grade

• Stay focused through the end! May grades still count and can impact promotion.
• Turn in missing work now; don’t wait until the last day! (May 8th or May 15th for students with Extended Time).
• Use Flex/tutoring for EOC review and to boost grades in priority classes.
• Start thinking about what habits you want to keep, tweak, or drop next year.

🟩10th Grade

• Keep attendance strong and finish core classes with your best effort. This matters for next year’s options.
• If you’re near the borderline in a core class, talk to your teacher and counselor now about what’s still possible.
• Begin thinking about summer opportunities (work, volunteering, enrichment) that support your goals.

🟪11th Grade

• Continue preparing for EOCs/AP exams and any SAT/ACT testing you have planned.
• Keep your grades strong; junior-year GPA is key for college admissions and scholarships.
• Start organizing a summer plan: college visits, résumé updates, volunteering, and test prep.
• Make sure you’re aware of Dual Enrollment or next-year course expectations if relevant.

🟨12th Grade

• Stay engaged! Senior grades and attendance still matter, especially for graduation clearance and college admissions.
• Monitor deadlines: final transcripts, financial aid verification, and college orientation.
• Continue applying for scholarships and checking portals/email for updates.
• If you’re unsure about next steps (college, work, military, training), contact your counselor or Ms. Patel.

For students attending a high school summer learning program:

• A student should take no more than two summer classes: two face-to-face classes, two online classes, or a combination.
• For students taking a course the cost per course is $250 for current GCPS students. Non-GCPS students pay $275 per course. All fees are due at the time of online registration.
• Transportation is not provided for face-to-face summer school classes or for the face-to-face sessions required for Online Campus courses.
• Any student planning to participate in the summer school graduation ceremony on July 1 must take all summer classes with Gwinnett County Public Schools. Summer Graduation will be held at Gas South Arena.
• Face-to-face summer classes will follow a five-day week, Monday through Friday, with a school holiday (no classes) on June 19.
• Rising 9th graders may take Health and/or Personal Fitness (PE). Both courses are required for graduation. These courses are available at Dacula High School and Parkview High School. GCPS rising 9th graders pay $250 for each of these classes.

Gwinnett County Public Schools' Face-to-Face High School Summer School is a fee-based program that allows students to take courses to get ahead or to make-up a class previously failed. Courses are available to all high school students, including selected courses for rising 9th graders. Face-to-Face high school locations are Dacula High School and Parkview High School.

Registration opens: April 1, 2026

Registration closes: May 22, 2026

Register via MyPaymentsPlus (Acceptable forms of payment: credit/debit card or electronic check)

Summer school dates: June 8, 2026 - July 1, 2026 (June 19 is a holiday)

Online summer school classes will be offered through Gwinnett Online Campus. Courses are available to all high school students, including selected courses for rising 9th graders. Note: Students will be invited to an optional virtual orientation on the first day of class, June 1. All courses will require a face-to-face final exam at our GOC campus, located at 713 Hi Hope Road in Lawrenceville.

Registration Opens: March 2, 2026

Registration Closes: May 22, 2026

Register via MyPaymentsPlus (Acceptable forms of payment: credit/debit card or electronic check)

Summer School Dates: June 1, 2026 - June 26, 2026

Through Title I funds, Paul Duke STEM High School is able to offer FREE Credit Recovery to students who need to learn a little more to master the AKS. Credit Recovery provides highly qualified instructors in Math, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies (core classes) as well as instructional resources and materials to assist students in their endeavor to obtain credit for graduation.

Program dates are May 26 - 29 (7:00 AM-11:00 AM) and May 26 - 29 (11:30 AM-3:30 PM)

Active participation, 100% attendance, and appropriate behavior are expected. If a student has 1 absence or 1 discipline referral during the session, they will be removed from the program.

Students eligible to participate in Summer Credit Recovery will receive registration information from the Counseling Department.

The Counseling Office operates by appointment only.

Students can request an appointment with their counselor by clicking here or by scanning the QR code posted in the Counseling Office. After submitting a request, students will receive a pass when their counselor is available to meet. In some cases, if the question can be more easily addressed by email, the counselor may respond that way instead.

If a student is experiencing a mental health emergency, they should come directly to the Counseling Office, no appointment needed.

Parents and guardians may request an appointment by phone or email. We're happy to assist you in scheduling a time to meet with us!

Check out our website for helpful information about our department and to request counseling appointments. You can also find relevant information for each grade level, college and career and dual enrollment!

Ms. Patel has launched a new Dual Enrollment website where you can find all the information you need to get your DE journey started!

Use the form below to refer yourself or someone you know to CARE team. A counselor will get in touch with you! 😊

CARE Team is always accepting donations of items in our wishlist! Your generosity is appreciated.

Sofia Cevallos - 9th and 10th grade, Last Names A-K (sofia.cevallos@gcpsk12.org)

Tony Rhone - 9th and 10th grade, Last Names L-Z (tony.rhone@gcpsk12.org)

Donyale Turner - 11th and 12th grade, Last Names A-K (donyale.turner@gcpsk12.org)

Justin Francisco- 11th and 12th grade, Last Names L-Z (justin.francisco@gcpsk12.org)

Leslie Patel - College & Career Counselor, Dual Enrollment Coordinator (leslie.patel@gcpsk12.org)

Ashley Morris - Special Projects (ashley.morris@gcpsk12.org)

Devin Jones - Administrator (devin.jones@gcpsk12.org)

The College and Career Center is here to help Paul Duke STEM High School students plan for their future after graduation. We are here to help students reach their goals, develop a plan to achieve them, and provide them with the most up-to-date information that ensures each student is successful with their post-secondary options. This includes four-year college, community college, military enlistment, employment, and/or vocational training.

Use the form below to request a Letter of Recommendation from your counselor!

Horatio Alger Association administers over 70 scholarship programs, offering opportunities for students in various stages of their academic careers to achieve their educational goals and realize their potential.

Ora B. Douglass Scholarship – Applications Now Open!

The Georgia Pearls of Service Foundation (GPOS) is now accepting applications for the 2026 Ora B. Douglass Scholarship, honoring the legacy of Mrs. Ora Barber Douglass — a trailblazer, community advocate, and the organization’s first Chief Executive Officer. This scholarship supports college‑bound seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, community service, and a commitment to higher education.

📋 Eligibility & Requirements

Applicants must be:

• A high school senior in the Metropolitan Atlanta area
• Graduating in Spring 2026 and entering college Fall 2026
• Able to submit a complete application package including:
  • A minimum 300‑word essay
  • Proof of anticipated 2026 graduation
  • A college acceptance letter for Fall 2026 enrollment
  • Three recommendation letters (principal/counselor, faculty member, non‑family member)
  • High school transcript including Fall 2025 grades

Essay Prompt:
“Why is continuing your education important to you? How will this scholarship help you achieve your goals?”

📅 Deadline

Friday, May 1, 2026
All materials must be emailed by 11:59 p.m.

📧 Submit Applications To

Ms. Hattie Best
Scholarships@georgiapearlsofservice.org

About the Scholarship

The Ora B. Douglass Scholarship honors a leader dedicated to uplifting communities through service and educational initiatives. GPOS has awarded over $55,000 in scholarships to support future scholars and community leaders.

2026 NNC Foundation Scholarship – Applications Now Open!

The Namki & Noul Chung Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 Scholarship Program, created to support students from families in need who have demonstrated strong academic performance and meaningful community involvement. The Foundation’s mission focuses on ensuring that all individuals—regardless of ethnicity, race, or income—have the resources needed to fulfill their potential.

📅 Important Dates

• Submission Deadline: May 31, 2026
• Winner Announcement: July 10, 2026
• Award Ceremony: August 7, 2026

🏆 Scholarship Awards

• Foundation Scholarship:
  • $2,000 for high school students
  • $3,000 for undergraduate and graduate students
• Community Scholarship: $3,000

🔗 Apply Now
Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit the NNC Foundation’s website.

📧 Questions?
scholarship@nncfoundation.org

📍 Organization Information

Namki and Noul Chung Foundation
PO Box 3301, Duluth, GA 30096
470‑282‑1643
www.nncfoundation.org

STREETWISE GEORGIA

This organization offers the necessary physical, emotional, mental and spiritual tools to help people stabilize their lives, improve their environment, and move out of a state of dependency into a state of well-being and self-sufficiency.

FINDHELPGA.ORG

Whether it’s financial assistance, food pantries, medical care, childcare, job training, and other free or reduced-cost services specific to your area, essential resources can be found here.

FOODFINDER.US

FoodFinder’s website and app act as food pantry locators that show you when and where to get free food assistance in your area. The interactive map shows food pantries nearby – every red pin you see is a food assistance program nearby.

HOPEMAPGEORGIA.ORG

Managed by the GaDOE, This is a map of family support resources with an interactive map that allows you to see what is available, what they provide, hours of operation, and for stores if they accept WIC.

Parents are invited to participate in Proximity Pathways, a free coaching and mentoring program designed to support personal growth, goal setting, and life skills.

📍 Location: Generations Church
706 N Peachtree St., Norcross, GA 30071

📅 Start Date: Saturday, May 16
⏰ Time: 10:00–11:15 AM
🔁 Meets every other Saturday

✅ Participants will explore:

• Life vision and personal goal setting
• One‑on‑one mentorship
• Strengths and self‑discovery
• Financial literacy and budgeting
• Mental health and emotional wellness
• Healthy relationships
• Legacy planning and spiritual growth

💡 Why Join?
Proximity Pathways is a commitment that supports lasting, sustainable change through mentorship and guidance.

📧 Questions or interest?
Email info@proximitygap.com
🌐 Visit proximitygap.com for more information

Volunteer Opportunity: Horizons at Georgia Tech – Classroom Assistants Needed!

Horizons at Georgia Tech is seeking enthusiastic high school students to serve as Volunteer Classroom Assistants for the upcoming summer program. This is a great opportunity for students who enjoy working with younger learners and want meaningful hands‑on experience in an educational setting.

📅 Program Dates
June 1 – July 2, 2026

✅ Who Can Apply

• High school students who have completed at least 10th grade

📘 Volunteer Responsibilities

• Support Lead Teachers and Group Leaders in the classroom
• Help guide and engage students in daily Horizons activities
• Contribute to creating a positive, supportive learning environment

🔗 Learn More & Apply
https://bit.ly/HGTHighSchoolVolunteerApp

📧 Questions?
Email: HorizonSGT@gatech.edu

Phoenix High School Open House

Phoenix High School invites families to attend the upcoming Open House sessions, designed to give the community an inside look at the school’s instructional model, course offerings, and student engagement opportunities.

📅 Dates & Times
May 5 & May 7
Session 1: 6:30–7:00 p.m.
Session 2: 7:00–7:30 p.m.

During these sessions, families will have the opportunity to learn more about the school’s programs, meet faculty, and explore how Phoenix High supports student success.

📍 Location

501 West Pike Street
Lawrenceville, GA 30046

Join experienced college admissions officers from top universities—including UGA for an insider look at what truly matters in today’s college application process.

📅 Date: Wednesday, May 6
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM EST

🔍 Topics include:

• Key 2026 admissions trends
• How test scores are really used
• AI in applications: helpful vs. harmful
• Choosing the right major and academic fit
• Early vs. Regular Decision strategies
• What colleges want to see in extracurricular involvement

👩‍🏫 Featuring admission officers from:
UGA, George Washington University, University of Wisconsin, and Syracuse University

✅ Free registration required:
👉 applerouth.com/college-admissions-webinars

📺 Can’t attend live? Register to receive the recording.

Seeds That Grow, Inc. invites eligible students to apply for the 2026 Legacy Cotillion, a no‑cost, sponsorship‑based program designed to support youth in care with real‑life skills, confidence, and leadership development.

✅ Who Can Apply:

• Youth in care in grades 10–12
• GED students

✨ Program Highlights:

• Community service opportunities
• Leadership and personal development
• Etiquette and social skills
• Financial literacy and career exploration
• College campus visit

📅 Program Timeline:
May–December (mostly weekends, with some weekday activities)

💙 Cost:
There is no cost to participants—no fees or fundraising required.

📝 Applications are now open!
Use the QR code on the flyer to apply.

📧 Questions?
Contact Tammy Robbins at tammy.robbins@seedsthatgrow.org

Join the New Birth Employment Network and Seeds That Grow, Inc. for a Career Job Fair and Workforce Development event designed to help participants gain skills, connect with employers, and access real career opportunities.

🚀 Event Highlights Include:

Career Accelerator Bootcamp

• Resume and interview coaching
• Workplace readiness skills
• Financial empowerment
• Skill‑building for career success

From Possibility to Paycheck Career Fair

• Meet employers
• On‑the‑spot interviews
• Apprenticeships and job training opportunities
• Pathways to long‑term employment

📅 Date: May 14
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: New Birth MBC, 6400 Woodrow Rd, Stonecrest, GA 30038

🎓 College Isn’t the Only Path to Success

Did you know that you don’t need a four‑year college degree to earn a livable wage? Many skilled trade and career pathway options offer strong salaries and high demand.

💼 Examples of Careers & Estimated Median Salaries:

• Plumber – $60,000
• Electrician – $60,000
• HVAC Technician – $51,000
• Auto Mechanic – $47,000
• Wind Turbine Technician – $57,000
• Dental Hygienist – $81,000
• Sonographer – $78,000
• Respiratory Therapist – $70,000
• Police Officer – $69,000
• Firefighter – $51,000
• Realtor – $52,000
• Cosmetologist/Barber/Stylist – $34,000
• 
  

📊 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

➡️ These careers often require technical training, certifications, or apprenticeships rather than a traditional college degree.

The end of the school year can feel like a lot-- tests, projects, final grades, and the pressure to “finish strong” all at once. Even if things are going well, this season can bring extra stress, irritability, trouble sleeping, or feeling mentally checked out. If that’s you (or your student), you’re not alone.

A few small habits can make a big difference right now. Focus on what you can control: get consistent sleep, eat something before school, and break assignments into smaller steps instead of trying to tackle everything in one sitting. Try using short study blocks (25 minutes on, 5 minutes off), and build in quick reset moments, like deep breathing, taking a short walk, or a few minutes away from your phone to help your brain recover.

Parents, this is a great time to check in with your student about how they’re feeling, not just how they’re doing academically. A simple “What feels most stressful right now?” can open the door to support.

And remember: asking for help is part of finishing strong. If stress feels overwhelming, or if you notice changes in mood, sleep, or motivation, please reach out to the Counseling Department. We’re here to support students and families all the way to the finish line!

This section of the newsletter will always be here for your reference! If you have any questions about high school graduation requirements, please feel free to reach out to us.

In order to earn a traditional Gwinnett County high school diploma, students who entered high school AFTER 07/2011 must earn the required 23 credits (see below):

Area of Study:

I. English/Language Arts: 4 credits

II. Math: 4 credits

III. *Science: 4 credits

IV. Social Studies: 3 credits

V. **Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE), and/or Modern Language/Latin, and/or Fine Arts: 3 credits

VI. Health & Physical Education: 1 credit

Electives (4 units): 4 credits

TOTAL: 23 credits

*The 4th science unit may be used to meet both the science and elective requirement.

** Students must complete three units in a pathway to complete a CTAE pathway and take an end of pathway assessment. Students interested in attending a University System of Georgia college/university must complete two years of the same foreign language to be admissible as a freshman.

Grade promotion is based on the number of Carnegie Unit Credits that a student earns year to year. Students earn .5 credits per class, per semester. Paul Duke STEM High School students take seven classes during the day and have the opportunity to earn 3.5 credits a semester, or 7 credits a year.

Promotion 9th to 10th: 5 Carnegie Units

Promotion 10th to 11th: 11 Carnegie Units

Promotion 11th to 12th: 17 Carnegie Units

Graduation: 23 Carnegie Units