Counseling Connection
Laney High School March 2026
Monday, March 2 Sophomore Class Meeting
During Homeroom in Laney Gym
Tuesday, March 3 Election Day/ Teacher Workday- NO SCHOOL
Thursday March 5 FAFSA COMPLETION SUPPORT EVENT
Location: CFCC Union Station 502 North Front St
Time: 6 pm-7:30 pm Facilitators: CFCC/UNCW Financial Aid, CFNC
Tuesday, March 10 Laney College Fair
8:30-11:30 Laney Media Center
Wednesday March 11 ACT TESTING
All Laney Juniors will take the ACT
8:30 AM in assigned classrooms TBD
March 18 and 19th- MIDTERM EXAMS (see schedule below)
Thursday March 19th- End of Grading Period
Friday, March 2O-Teacher Workday, NO SCHOOL
Wednesday March 25 -Report Cards
SAVE THE DATE:
SPRING BREAK: April 3 Good Friday Holiday, April 6-10 Spring Break
PROM: Saturday, April 18th at Modern Aviation ILM
Course Registration
All Juniors should book their Junior Meeting appointment with their assigned counselor to compete registration and plan for senior year!
ACT TESTING: MARCH 11th
The ACT test is a curriculum-based education and career planning tool for high school students that assesses the mastery of college readiness standards. All students in North Carolina take this test in the spring of Junior Year. Scores may be used in the college admissions process.
Laney Students will test on Wednesday, March 11th. Student testing locations will be shared with students prior to the exam. Please watch your email for instructions.
ACT Study Sessions:
March 2 and 9 -Media Center During Flex
What is the Difference between the ACT and SAT?
The ACT and SAT are both college entrance exams accepted by nearly all U.S. colleges. While they measure similar skills in reading, writing, and math, there are a few key differences. The ACT includes a Science section and moves at a slightly faster pace, while the SAT focuses more heavily on evidence-based reading and problem-solving. The SAT allows a bit more time per question, and its math section places a stronger emphasis on algebra and data analysis.
College bound students may consider taking both tests to see which format and pacing feel like the better fit. Please see your counselor for more information. Fee Waivers are available for qualified students.
XELLO: Career Development Plans
Have you completed your Career Development Plan (CDP)? 10th grade students must complete their Career Development Plan in Xello as part of the requirements for promotion to 11th grade. This plan helps you explore career interests, identify strengths, set postsecondary goals, and map out the courses that align with your future plans.
Taking time to complete your plan will give you clarity about your goals, help you make informed decisions about junior and senior year courses, and ensure you stay on track for graduation and life after high school. See your counselor for more information or for help completing your plan!
NEXT NC SCHOLARSHIP
The Next NC Scholarship is a financial aid program that helps most North Carolinians from households making $80,000 or less pursue higher education. Students attending a community college will receive at least $3,000 per year. Those attending a public university in North Carolina will get a minimum of $5,000 per year. The best part? It’s money that doesn’t have to be repaid.
The money awarded through the Next NC Scholarship can be used to cover expenses at any of the 58 community colleges or 16 UNC System universities across the state. That funding goes beyond tuition to include things like fees, books, food, and housing. Complete your FAFSA today to see if you qualify!