CCMR/Counseling Newsletter

VISION: The vision of DeSoto ISD is to inspire curiosity and consciousness, develop character, build courage and nurture compassion.

MISSION: The mission of DeSoto ISD is to ensure students, without exception, learn and grow at their highest levels.

We are please to welcome two full-time Education is Freedom (EIF) Advisors to the DeSoto High School Campus to work with our high school students.

The EIF Advisors are each dedicated to one campus for the entire school year and are in their classroom throughout the school day to assist all students with activities related to their future education. In high schools, this includes:

· Researching college options

· Working on applications

· Writing admissions essays

· Completing FAFSA/TASFA applications

· Completing scholarship applications

· Exploring workforce training and certification programs

· Supporting SAT/ACT/TSIA/ASVAB preparation

In addition to the daily interaction with and guidance to students, EIF Advisors facilitate all student and parent activities throughout the year, such as college application and SAT/ACT preparatory workshops. EIF Advisors also facilitate EIF’s annual financial aid workshops for EIF parents and students to complete federal and state financial aid applications.

There are scholarships available for ALL grade levels. The CCMR department has compiled a list of scholarship opportunities that range from elementary to high school. It is never too early to start securing funds for college. View the listings below and start applying today!!

Get ready to apply for college for free! The second full week of October is officially Free College Application Week in Texas. From October 13-19, 2025, Texas residents can apply to any Texas public college or university for undergraduate admission without paying an application fee.

Be sure to submit your applications through ApplyTexas to take advantage of this opportunity!

The Gifted & Talented (GT) program is designed for students who show advanced abilities, creativity, or leadership skills. It gives students the chance to go beyond the regular classroom, explore new ideas, and challenge themselves in exciting ways.

🎯 What Students Experience in GT

• Challenging Classes: Learn at a deeper and faster pace.

• Creative Projects: Explore passions in STEM, arts, writing, leadership, and more.

• Special Opportunities: Research projects, competitions, and advanced coursework.

• Supportive Peers: Learn alongside other students who love to think big and dream big.

🌱 Benefits for Students

• Stay Challenged – Explore advanced topics and never feel bored.

• Grow Confidence – Discover strengths and talents.

• Be Ready for the Future – Gain skills for college, careers, and beyond.

• Make Friends Who Inspire You – Build connections with other motivated students.

• Learn to Lead – Practice problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership.

💡 Why GT Matters

GT programming helps students reach their full potential by giving them the tools to think critically, act creatively, and succeed academically—all while having fun learning!

• The Culinary Arts department will cater a luncheon at the Communities Foundation of Texas.
• Middle school students will attend the Texas Career Fair in Garland, TX.
• Students will focus on workplace skills.

College will offer your student countless opportunities in life. There are some simple things you can do to help your student prepare.

Start early.

• No matter how young your student is, it is never too early to begin planning for college and talking with your student about it.
  

Be clear.

• Communicate your expectations to your student about his or her behavior and performance in school.

Talk.

• Have frequent conversations with your student about schoolwork, goals and the importance of education.

Encourage.

• Motivate your student to try new activities, volunteer in the community and succeed in school. Studies have shown that students involved in school activities enjoy school more and do better academically. Extra activities at school help students make new friends, gain confidence and new skills and have fun!