Klondike Counseling Connections!

I am here to support students’ academic growth, personal well-being, and future planning. From course planning and college prep to emotional support and conflict resolution, I am here to help every step of the way.

Keep this newsletter handy! It’s your go-to guide for:

• Who your counselors is and how to contact me.

• What services I can offer for students and families.

• When & Where to find me during the school day.

• How to get help, ask questions, or schedule a meeting.

I am excited to work with you this year! 💛

MONDAY-FRIDAY (8:00am-3:30pm)

Mrs. Dossey will be leading our Pk-4th Character Development Program this year.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact her.

Each month, Coach Cruz will upload the character development video that our 5th-12th grade students will be watching. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call or email.

Parents/Guardians,

In honor of National Bullying Prevention Month this October, Klondike ISD is committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and digitally responsible learning environment. As part of our campus wellness and safety initiatives, students in grades 5th-12th will watch the educational documentary, "The Upstanders." *We will only be watching the 12 minute version.*

We recognize that the topics of mental health and online harassment are sensitive.

If you would like to preview the documentary, visit the David's Legacy Foundation Program page.

If you prefer that your student not view this presentation, an opt out letter has been sent home. Please sign and return this form to the school by Friday, Oct. 23rd.

The video will be shown on Thursday, Oct. 29th, during Cougar Climb.

• Use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, tests, and deadlines.
• Break big assignments into smaller steps so they feel more manageable.
• Prioritize what’s due first and avoid waiting until the last minute.
• Use study time wisely by putting your phone away and focusing for short periods.
• Ask for help early if you’re confused or falling behind.
• Take care of yourself—get enough sleep, drink water, eat regularly, and take breaks.
• If you’re sick, communicate with your teachers and make a plan for catching up when you return.
• Give yourself grace! Busy seasons happen, staying organized can make them easier to manage.

🎓 October Checklist 🎓

• Work through the FAFSA and gather the information you’ll need to complete it.
• Search for scholarships through your school, community organizations, and colleges.
• Make a scholarship calendar with deadlines and application requirements.
• Check each college’s financial aid requirements, some schools may have additional forms or deadlines.
• Compare college costs including tuition, housing, books, transportation, and other expenses.
• Check your attendance and make a plan to avoid unnecessary absences.
• Keep your grades up, your senior year grades still matter!
• Create a list of important senior dates and add them to your calendar.
• Have a post graduation plan! College, Career, Military, Etc.

College Applications

Now is the time to start exploring college options, narrowing your choices, and preparing your applications. Texas Free College Application Week is October 12–18, 2026!

2027–28 FAFSA Form

**Each senior is required to send me proof of submission or complete an opt out form!**

Texas’ public university enrollment leaders compiled a list of the Guaranteed Tuition Programs available across the state. The directory outlines the programs providing free tuition based on family/household income (parent and student) as of August 2025. Basic program information is provided for each university, with contact information and a website link. Programs listed have different eligibility rules which are subject to change.

Some parents may receive a check from Howard College, please don’t be alarmed! As part of Klondike ISD’s commitment to supporting our students and families, the district is covering the cost of select Dual Credit courses. We are grateful for this opportunity to help make college coursework more accessible and affordable for our students.

What Is My Texas Future?

A state website where students create a profile (graduation plan, class rank, GPA, SAT/ACT scores) that colleges can use to offer direct admission, skipping the usual application process.

Why Does This Matter?

• Early insight into direct admission options helps families plan financially for college sooner.
• Gives students a clearer, earlier picture of where they may already qualify to attend.
• Can offer real hope to students who assume college isn't within reach — due to cost, grades, or uncertainty about where they'd get in.
• Helps students and families make informed decisions well before senior year application deadlines.
• This is now a graduation requirement, not just an optional form!!

What Does This Mean for You?

If you want to participate: Have your student create a profile on My Texas Future and keep it updated. Students will also have the opportunity to work on their profiles at school.

If you'd rather not participate: A parent/guardian can sign an opt-out form — or your student can, if they're 18+ or legally an adult — or a school counselor can authorize the opt-out in writing.

Either way, talk to your school counselor if you have questions about the forms or deadlines.

My Texas Future

My Texas Future Opt Out Form

My Texas Future is experiencing a lot of issues due to the influx of new account creations.

Please be patient as they work to resolve these issues and we adjust accordingly.

Child Maltreatment: Pg. 40

Class Rank/GPAs: Pg. 43

College Admissions/Dual Credit: Pg. 48

Counseling Services: Pg. 52

Course Credit: Pg. 54

Grading Guidelines: Pg. 67

Graduation Requirements: Pg. 68

FAFSA: Pg. 71

Graduation Plans/Programs: Pg. 72

Mental Health: Pg. 83

Schedule Changes: Pg. 99

ACT/SAT: Pg. 104

Substance Abuse/Suicide Awareness: Pg. 106

Email: katie.cruz@klondikeisd.net
Website: https://klondike.esc17.net/
Location: 2911 CR H, Lamesa, Tx 79331
Phone: (806) 462-7332