Counseling Newsletter Volume 7

MEG SMIKAHL:

Meg Smikahl is our wonderful TVHS registrar. She helps with things like enrollments, transcripts, withdraws, and many other essential tasks to help our school function. Here is her fun fact:

I grew up in a community less than 900 people, lived on a farm and showed hogs in 4H! 🐷🐖👩🏻‍🌾

JOE LARKIN

This month we are proud to recognize a student who truly represents the heart of our school community - Joe Larkin! He is consistently kind, sweet, and friendly, always making others feel welcome and supported. Known for his generosity and honesty, he treats others with respect and leads with integrity. Over the past year, he has shown incredible personal growth, demonstrating greater confidence, responsibility, and dedication to doing his best. His positive attitude and genuine care for others make a meaningful impact on those around him. We are so proud to celebrate him as our Counseling Student of the Month!

The wellness wheel is a visual tool that shows each category of wellness on a wheel. It gives people the opportunity to hone in on their wellness by identifying areas in their life they may have neglected and seek to improve

The wellness wheel is a tool for self exploration that promotes the concept that balance is the key to wellbeing. You can use the wellness wheel periodically to reflect on your progress over time, and it can help you understand what lifestyle changes you may want to start making

February and March have been very exciting for the counseling department!

In February, the counseling department partnered with our lovely TVHS Health teachers, Mrs. Stassi and Mr. Krager, during their wellness unit. Ms. Hall and Ms. Edwards went into each health class and gave a presentation on suicide awareness, called Resiliency Education Protecting the Lives of Youth (REPLY). Students went home with a booklet with resources on coping skills and how to help someone who is going through a tough time.

Counselors love it when we can connect with students in the classroom setting, and we hope that students learned that they are not alone and that there is always someone who cares about them!

Additionally, the Sexual Assault Resource Team (SART) visited each health class to discuss sexual assault, harassment, and what consent looks and feels like. Our TVHS SART peer leaders, Tori Metzger and Sage Hughes, gave a 90-minute presentation to each class about these topics, and they did an amazing job! We love it when students educate their peers, especially on topics that are as important as this one.

If you are interested in being a SART peer next year (2026-2027), please fill out the application below! We are looking for students who are passionate about education surrounding sexual assault (and, you can get ~16 hours of community service...).

If you or someone you know is dealing with suicidal ideation or dating violence, please reach out to a trusted adult. You do not have to navigate this alone. Please click the buttons below to find resources.

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to recognize the contributions, strengths, and achievements of people with developmental disabilities while also promoting understanding, inclusion, and equity in our communities and schools.

Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions that affect physical, learning, language, or behavioral development. Some examples include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and Intellectual Disability. Many individuals with developmental disabilities thrive in school, work, and community life when they have access to supportive environments and inclusive opportunities.

At school, inclusion means creating spaces where everyone feels respected, valued, and supported. Small actions - like the ones listed below, can make a big difference!

How to be an ally to those in the Developmental Disabilities Community:

• Include everyone. Invite classmates to join group activities, conversations, or clubs. Small gestures of inclusion can make a big difference.
• Use respectful language. Avoid stereotypes or jokes about disabilities. Treat others with the same respect and kindness you would want for yourself. Avoid using the R slur.
• Be patient and understanding. Everyone learns and communicates in different ways. Give people time to express themselves and ask questions respectfully when needed.
• Stand up for others. If you hear teasing, bullying, or exclusion, speak up or let a trusted adult know.
• Learn more. Taking time to understand different experiences helps build empathy and stronger communities. Organizations like The Arc of the United States and Autism Society of America offer helpful information about developmental disabilities and inclusion.

• The Arc of the United States - Advocacy, resources, and information for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families

• Autism Society of America - Education, support resources, and community connections

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Developmental Disabilities Resources - Information for families, educators, and students

• National Down Syndrome Society - Education, advocacy, and community support

What is concurrent enrollment?

The Concurrent Enrollment (CE) program provides high school students with the opportunity to enroll in postsecondary courses and earn college credit at no tuition cost to them or their families.

Registration for Front Range Community College for Fall 2026 classes opens up for everyone on Monday, March 16th.

• Please see your counselor if you need/want help picking classes or applying/registering for Front Range.
• Please Note, you must also fill out the FRCC Campus Select Orientation Form once you have your student ID number (S#): https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeVj7z43oZ-CnjDMXcZhfI9w7O5BKFS4FnIyq3hQz1Afz_fxQ/viewform before registering for classes.
• FRCC Application (make sure to select High School Student): frontrange.edu/apply
• FRCC List of Classes: https://frontrange.smartcatalogiq.com/en/current/catalog/courses/
• FRCC Fall Class Schedules: https://www.frontrange.edu/programs-courses/register/class-schedule/index.html

Once you have registered for classes, please fill out the TVHS Concurrent Enrollment Agreement Form (this is how we know to pay for your tuition): https://forms.gle/vrQkEBr1NDk88j8Q8

• Please contact Isabelle Wolfe if interested: isabelle.wolfe@aims.edu

🌻 Summer is the perfect time for high school students to dive into new interests, develop new skills, grow with other students, and explore future possibilities!

• Colorado State University offers a wide variety of summer camps designed to spark curiosity, build skills, and inspire confidence. Each camp offers something unique. Some are day programs, while others include overnight stays. While a few are free, others may require a fee or a short application process.
• No matter which camp you choose, you’ll gain hands-on experience, connect with like-minded peers, and grow in ways that will prepare you for your next big adventure. It’s an unforgettable experience waiting for you!

• RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) is an intensive leadership development program organized by Rotary clubs and districts worldwide. Participants attend a week-long conference at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park. RYLA participants have an opportunity to:

• Build communication and problem-solving skills
• Discover strategies for becoming a dynamic leader in your school or community
• Learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers, and peer mentors
• Unlock your potential to turn motivation into action
• Have fun and form lasting friendships
• RYLA 2026 is Sunday, July 12 - Friday, July 17 2026.

• April 15th from 6:30pm-7:00pm in the TVHS Auditorium: Mandatory Parent and Senior Student Graduation Meeting

• April 22nd: Senior Exit Process Begins

• May 11th: Yearbook Distribution and Senior Send Off Assembly

• May 12th at 1:15pm: Seniors pick up “Check Out Sheet” in the Counseling Office

• May 13th:

• 9:00am: Mandatory Check Out all day

• Last Day for Seniors

• May 14th:

• 8:00am-9:00am: Optional Senior Breakfast

• 9:00am-11:00am in the TVHS Auditorium: Mandatory Graduation Practice #1

• May 18th at 5:00pm in the TVHS Auditorium: All Sport Celebration Night

• May 20th

• 8:00am-8:45am in the TVHS Auditorium: Mandatory Final Graduation Practice #2

• 8:45am-9:15am in the TVHS Cafeteria: Cap and Gown Distribution

• 9:15am-9:30am in the TVHS Gym: Senior Picture and Diploma Distribution

• May 21st at 7:00pm in the TVHS Auditorium: Senior Awards Night (Seniors being recognized with an award will arrive at 6:45pm dressed in graduation regalia)

If you haven't turned it in, please do so ASAP.

Chromebooks for Graduating Students

Students that are graduating and have paid their fines are eligible to keep their Chromebook as they leave Thompson. The ITS website includes information about the program and instructions on how to fill out the proper forms to take advantage of this opportunity. You can also click the button below.

• Please note that if a student is transitioning into Community Connections, they should retain their Chromebook for use in that program.

Class of 2026 Graduation Shopping

New this year! All graduation announcements are personalized with YOUR NAME inside! Orders ship to your home beginning March 2026.

• "NEW" Grad Announcement Delivery - orders will ship to your home beginning March 2026
• "NEW" Shipping & Handling added - April 1st, S & H added to all Cap & Gown only orders
• May 2026 Cap & Gown Delivery at school
• May 1st, 2026 - Final Day to order cap & gown

Click the button below to shop!

Scholarships and grants are helpful ways to fund your college education. They provide you with free money that can go towards tuition or other educational expenses.

Here are some other scholarship resources we recommend:

Fast Web: fastweb.com

Horatio Alger: https://horatioalger.org/scholarships-and-services/undergraduate-scholarships/

Scholarships.com: https://www.scholarships.com/financial-aid/college-scholarships/scholarship-directory

Are you a senior that is unsure what they want to do after high school? Are you a senior that is staying local after graduation and looking for a longer-term part-time or full-time job or entry into a career? Then we'd love to see you at the Senior Hiring Fair!

• Event Organizer: Thompson and Poudre School Districts
• What: The event will feature businesses and organizations from throughout Larimer and Weld counties who will host informative booths, taking applications and resumes, and even interviewing on the spot! This is a FREE event.
• Who's Invited: Graduating seniors who are staying local and are looking for a longer-term part-time or full-time job, or entry into a career.
• When: Thursday, April 9th. 9am to 12pm.
• Where: Foothills Mall in Fort Collins (northwest entrance near H&M)
• How to prepare: Bring multiple copies of your resume, dress nicely, and plan for the possibility of interviewing with recruiters at the event.
• Bussing Offered: Skip the traffic and secure the job! When you sign up in Xello, you can select to ride with us or drive yourself to the event. Join us on the bus and make your day easier!
• 40+ Organizations Attending: Click here to view the List of Participating Business, Organizations, and Colleges
• Sign-up: Sign up in Xello. Permission forms are required so you can be excused from school.

View the flyer below!

Students who are interested in playing sports at a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I or Division II college should begin planning early to ensure they meet eligibility requirements.

To compete in NCAA athletics, students must complete required high school NCAA-approved core courses, maintain the required GPA, and follow NCAA academic guidelines. Students planning to compete should also register with the NCAA Eligibility Center so their academic records can be reviewed.

STEPS FOR STUDENTS:

9th & 10th Grade

• Focus on strong grades and completing NCAA-approved core courses

• Meet with your school counselor to ensure your schedule keeps you on track

• Begin exploring colleges and athletic programs

• Create an account with the NCAA Eligibility Center

11th Grade

• Continue taking NCAA-approved core courses and maintaining strong grades

• Talk with coaches and research potential college programs

12th Grade

• Request your final transcript be sent to the NCAA Eligibility Center after graduation

• Complete amateurism certification through your Eligibility Center account

• Stay in contact with college coaches and admissions offices

Resources for Families

• National Collegiate Athletic Association Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete (2025-2026)

• NCAA Eligibility Center registration and approved courses

• NCAA core course and GPA information for Division I and II athletes

Students considering college athletics are encouraged to connect with their school counselor to make sure they are meeting all eligibility requirements and staying on track academically.

DAISY CHAVEZ!

Daisy was nominated for Rotary Club's Student of the Month by Ashlee Edwards! Here is what she had to say about Daisy:

Daisy Chavez is a standout scholar and leader who perfectly balances academic excellence with dedicated service. With a 3.8 GPA and a transcript filled with AP and college-level coursework, Daisy has proven she is more than ready for the rigors of higher education. Beyond the classroom, she serves with distinction as Co-Senior Class President and holds a vital role on the FFA Leadership Team. Known for her intellect and her unwavering kindness to every person she meets, Daisy represents the very best of our student body. She plans to continue her journey at the university level this fall.

Through this nomination, Daisy earned a $500 scholarship from the Rotary Club. Congrats Daisy!

The students listed below received counselor-recommended Jersey Mikes awards for being outstanding students! They received a free sandwich, a coupon for Buy-One-Get-One-Half-Off, and kind words written to them from their counselor.

Congratulations, and thank you for being leaders in our school!

• 2/6 - Graedyn Lovenburg (10), Irelynd Rich (9)
• 2/13 - Shyann Blackwill (10), Jasmine Baughman (10)
• 2/20 - Marin Sarinana (10), Galilea Alvarez-Mejia (9)
• 3/3 - Tori Metzger (11), Sage Hughes (10), Quintin Gifford (11), Sam Leaver (11), Elaina Lokken (11)

Looking for a job to pay for your new car or lunch at Wendy's? Or maybe you're looking for an internship to get experience in a job or major you want to pursue? Look no further! We're here to help!

Explore XELLO!

Students can log into Xello (via Classlink), click on Explore (the rocket icon), and click on Opportunities.

Here, you can explore local employment opportunities, internships, etc. (see pictures below for help). The information is current!

Youth-Friendly Employers

Additionally, check out these lists of local youth-friendly employers!

• English Version
• Spanish Version

We want to hear from YOU! We are so excited to be starting our newsletter this year, and it's important to us that your voice is heard. What sort of things do you want to see in the counseling newsletter? What would be helpful? Help us help you by filling out the Google Form linked below!