SGB Counseling Newsletter
October
October Counseling Newsletter
Have you considered nominating yourself for the Governor's Honors Program?
The Georgia Governor’s Honors Program (GHP) is a prestigious four-week summer residential program for rising juniors and seniors (current 10th and 11th grade students). Held on the campus of Georgia Southern University, GHP provides students with advanced instruction, hands-on learning, and the opportunity to connect with motivated peers from across the state.
Nomination Areas include:
Agricultural Research, Biotechnology, and Science
Communicative Arts
Computer Science
Dance
Engineering (Civil, Architecture, & Construction, Electrical & Computational, and Mechanical & Aerospace)
Mathematics
Music (Instrument and vocal)
Social Studies
Theatre
Visual Arts
World Languages (Chinese, French, German, Latin, and Spanish)
Students who are nominated demonstrate exceptional talent, creativity, and passion in their area of interest.
If you are interested in being considered for nomination, please complete the nomination form by October 9, 2026.
Still not sure? You can watch this video for more info.
Last chance to join the DE info session to be ready for Spring DE👇
Event Information
Please join us on Tuesday, October 6th at 6:00 PM for our final Dual Enrollment Info Session of the semester! Thinking about taking Dual Enrollment (DE) courses next semester? This session is for you! You’ll learn: Students and parents are strongly encouraged to attend if you are considering DE for next semester. Link to join: https://georgiacyber.class.com/class/d49c98ea-eae1-4094-a045-a510fe023cda
Skip the wait. Start your college degree in high school with Dual Enrollment!
Interested in Dual Enrollment? Don't delay - this is a great time to learn about this fabulous opportunity! You might be able to start as soon as this spring semester.
Dual Enrollment (DE) is a program that provides funding for GCA students in grades 10-12 to take approved college-level coursework for credit towards both high school and college graduation requirements. Students can take academic core classes or technical classes through colleges on the approved list. A list of participating colleges can be found HERE. Students can begin as early as the summer after 9th grade.
New this year, students interested in dual enrollment can check out the dual enrollment page on the GCA website, go HERE for more information.
More questions? Review the Dual Enrollment Information Brochure Below
Reach out to your Dual Enrollment Counselor! We hope you will take advantage of this AWESOME and FREE opportunity!!
Last name:
A-N Charlotte Byrd cbyrd@georgiacyber.org
M-Z Raven Heard rheard@georgiacyber.org
Accelerated Career Diploma Students
A-Z Amy Clark aclark@georgiacyber.org
What is the Accelerated Career Diploma?
If you are a student that would like to fast track your high school courses to get a jump start on learning hands on skills, you don't want to skip over this. Just in case you can't read this tiny print below, the pdf is included as an attachment, along with clickable links. You can also contact Mrs. Clark at aclark@georgiacyber.org for more info!
Did you know you can earn credit for working?
Work-Based Learning (WBL) is an opportunity to receive high school course credit through job placement while working in an environment related to your Career/CTAE pathway.
Requirements
- You must be at least 16 years old
- You must have reliable transportation
- You must have at least a 2.2 rolling GPA and a 2.0 from the previous semester
- Complete application packet
Benefits
• Gain experience in your desired career field
• Develop employability skills including positive work habits and attitudes.
• Improve your job prospects after graduation and gain a competitive advantage.
• Make professional connections that will help you in the future.
• Earn elective credit and a paycheck! (if placed in a paid position)
• Opportunities available across Georgia
WBL Application Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc0mN7zCGeiPC3bc6Mv-nD3FGUgYxykYfZme8z5zpxs2igqhw/viewform
For More Information Contact: Tricia McCoy tmccoy@georgiacyber.org
Attention Juniors and Seniors
We have some exciting news…. Tuesday October 6th @ 6pm: VIRTUAL Financial Aid Night in CLASS. This meeting is a great opportunity for 11th-12th graders & their families to receive detailed information about:
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Student Aid Index (SAI) guidelines
- Grants, loans, scholarships, and work study
- HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship/Grant
We will also be providing college admissions insights from several institutions both in state and out of state including private schools, public schools, and technical colleges! College admissions reps will be speaking about the true cost of college, application tips & tricks, and so much more!
Click here to join the meeting on Tuesday October 6th @ 6pm: https://georgiacyber.class.com/class/b7e26d3a-8197-43ce-bea8-e764d98e3ddc
To support our 12th graders further, we will also be having a FAFSA Open Office Completion event:
Monday November 16th through Friday November 20th @ 12pm-1:00pm: FAFSA Power Hour Open Office to assist students and parents/guardians in FAFSA completion! Click here to register.
Click here to view the FAFSA Power Hour Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1e4dwLv50TMnYsOPisycEiWOYCFqE7GuJ/view?usp=sharing
We look forward to seeing you at one of our events soon!
đź‘ŞFall Parent Nights Recordingsđź‘Ş
If you could not make it to the meetings, no worries, we have you covered all 9th-12th parent night recordings can be found here.
9th Grade Parent Night-https://georgiacyber.instructuremedia.com/embed/90382fdc-f098-4a77-9931-95590efd3174
10th Grade Parent Night-https://georgiacyber.zoom.us/rec/share/KG79tEznHPk7WCrxwbcetp2qzjIzbdUU3xFN_WMi-gqD9fQ7UTXrPe23hqf2ULRS.NrgRDSYudOTPaO8C
11th Grade Parent Night-https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VTsGw78--P2k13BXh7JCw5XtZGHSpd79/view?usp=drive_link
12th Grade Parent Night-https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wqTVKBpNf7NqN4xwTxA3vwnPgVL4vfe-/view
Event Information
Seeking all students interested in military careers
Interested in exploring military career options after high school? The GCA Counseling Department can connect you with guidance and resources for all branches of service, including the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Space Force.
Please complete this short Military Interest Survey so we can support your goals!
Are you a 10th, 11th, or 12th Grade Student considering military enlistment OR what careers fit your personality?
Are you considering what careers best fit your personality? The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a heavily researched and well-respected aptitude test developed by the Department of Defense as it measures a young adult's strength and potential for success.Take the In-Person ASVAB Exam at the Atlanta GCA Main Office!
- The ASVAB is different from both the ACT and the SAT. The ACT and SAT measure achievement and are primarily used for college applications. The ASVAB measures aptitude and acquired skills which can be used to help predict future academic and occupational success.
- ASVAB scores thus give students insight into their options and aid them in planning their next step after high school. It is required for enlistment in any military branch, but is also used for students who are not interested in the military who want to identify careers that fit their character and aptitude.
- This exam will be administered on Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 9AM to 12PM In-Person at the GCA Main Office in Atlanta, Georgia. You must provide your own transportation to and from the main office in order to participate.
- Participants must register by using this link: https://forms.gle/Arnr2jFbc6PymEUk7
- For more information, please contact Mr. Derrick Westry at dwestry@georgiacyber.org. The deadline to register is Monday, October 12, 2026 at 12pm.
ASVAB Website: https://www.asvabprogram.com/
ASVAB Overview Guide: https://prod-media.asvabprogram.com/CEP_PDF_Contents/fact_sheet.pdf
ASVAB Overview Video: https://youtu.be/S_c588QTR2s
🏫Face-to-Face College Visits🏫
The GCA Counseling Department is conducting an In-Person College Tour at the Kennesaw State University (Kennesaw, GA Campus) on Monday, October 5, 2026 at 10:30AM. This is not a virtual tour, so please do not register if you are not able to travel in person to the Kennesaw, Georgia Campus.
Students, please consult with your parents or legal guardians before completing the registration form to ensure you will make it to the campus in Kennesaw, Georgia. You and your parent/guardian, if they are planning to attend, will drive and meet us at the Kennesaw, GA campus (the itinerary with all relevant information will be sent after registering). We will tour the campus, receive information about their collegiate programs and majors, housing, meal plans, admission requirements, tuition, and scholarships. There are 50 reserved slots for this tour (High School students receive priority registration). This event is at capacity.
KSU Campus Tour Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/17tTRNl8xwfyk9MLBh3pz6SNcr8AnbXH8/view?usp=sharing
To learn more about KSU: https://www.kennesaw.edu/
"Find Your Wings at KSU": https://youtu.be/HPn1r4BTgkI?si=Z2U-PW1t7pkHaoz8
Campus Tour Registration Link: https://forms.gle/ZRWYRHCkzyegAe7P8
The GCA Counseling Department is conducting an In-Person College Tour at Emory University (Atlanta, GA Campus) on Thursday, October 8, 2026 at 2PM. This is not a virtual tour, so please do not register if you are not able to travel in person to the Atlanta, Georgia Campus.
Students, please consult with your parents or legal guardians before completing the registration form to ensure you will make it to the campus in Atlanta, Georgia. You and your parent/guardian, if they are planning to attend, will drive and meet us at the Atlanta, GA campus (the itinerary with all relevant information will be sent after registering). We will tour the campus, receive information about their collegiate programs and majors, housing, meal plans, admission requirements, tuition, and scholarships. There are 50 reserved slots for this tour (High School students receive priority registration). This event is at capacity.
Emory University Tour Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dfOt_Ze_u1smyF6qzKREsh4sAqpQsWi8/view?usp=sharing
To learn more about Emory University https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html
"Is Emory University for You?" Video: https://youtu.be/WBVtlnS8awI?si=kMAUOF9stMMZZf0z
Click here to register to attend the IN PERSON tour: https://forms.gle/4nzvBmUtaCvqVseh9
Two visits on October 13th, Morehouse for male students and Spelman for female students
The GCA Counseling Department is conducting an In-Person College Tour at the Morehouse College Atlanta, GA Campus on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 from 10AM to 12PM. This in-person campus tour is for MALE STUDENTS ONLY!! This is not a virtual tour, so please do not register if you are not able to travel in person to the campus in Atlanta, Georgia. Students, please consult with your parents or legal guardians before completing the registration form to ensure you will travel to the campus in Atlanta, Georgia. You and your parent/guardian, if they are planning to attend, will drive and meet us at the Morehouse College Atlanta, GA campus (the itinerary with all relevant information will be sent after registering). We will receive a walking tour of their historic campus, receive information about their collegiate programs and majors, housing, meal plans, admission requirements, tuition, and scholarships. There are 30 reserved slots for this tour (High School students have priority registration). Sign up today! The deadline to register is Friday, October 9, 2026 or the registration will close once the 30 slots are filled.
Click here to view the flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Pw35eFrur1mZQVgV4cqHTtb9_zokcxRn/view?usp=sharing
To learn more about Morehouse College: https://morehouse.edu/
"Why Morehouse College": https://youtu.be/4Uou4RMAzXs?si=5oFoaYRhPP7Uav0E
Click here to register to attend the IN PERSON tour: https://forms.gle/ReSpYHT1oo9FRo7S9
The GCA Counseling Department is conducting an In-Person College Tour at the Spelman College Atlanta, GA Campus on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 from 10AM to 12PM. This in-person campus tour is for FEMALE STUDENTS ONLY!! This is not a virtual tour, so please do not register if you are not able to travel in person to the campus in Atlanta, Georgia.
Students, please consult with your parents or legal guardians before completing the registration form to ensure you will travel to the campus in Atlanta, Georgia. You and your parent/guardian, if they are planning to attend, will drive and meet us at the Spelman College Atlanta, GA campus (the itinerary with all relevant information will be sent after registering). We will receive a walking tour of their historic campus, receive information about their collegiate programs and majors, housing, meal plans, admission requirements, tuition, and scholarships. There are 30 reserved slots for this tour (High School students have priority registration). Sign up today! The deadline to register is Friday, October 9, 2026 or the registration will close once the 30 slots are filled.
Click here to view the flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10nUDVswPuW6PKvqD0andFoH37Evvd0C9/view?usp=sharing
To learn more about Spelman College: https://www.spelman.edu/
"Why Spelman College": https://youtu.be/qg2m8LnxgDs?si=M7upeX7QhK-CJd5D
Click here to register to attend the IN PERSON tour: https://forms.gle/HbfhwhN23SqejbTP9
The GCA Counseling Department is conducting an In-Person College Tour at West Georgia Technical College Carrollton, GA Campus on Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 9AM to 10:30AM. This is not a virtual tour, so please do not register if you are not able to travel in person to their campus in Carrollton, Georgia.
Students, please consult with your parents or legal guardians before completing the registration form to ensure you will travel to their campus in Carrollton, Georgia. You and your parent/guardian, if they are planning to attend, will drive and meet us at the West Georgia Technical College Carrollton, GA campus (the itinerary with all relevant information will be sent after registering). We will receive a walking tour of their campus, receive information about their technical programs and majors: https://www.westgatech.edu/wp-content/uploads/Carroll-Campus-Available-Programs.pdf, admission requirements, tuition, housing, meal plans and scholarships. There are 50 reserved slots for this tour (High School students have priority registration). Sign up today! The deadline to register is Tuesday, October 13, 2026 or the registration will close once the 50 slots are filled.
Click here to view the flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pxSeqrZ0aUV7pN6Ht1TqcURwvwQJsNO-/view?usp=sharing
To learn more about West Georgia Technical College: https://www.westgatech.edu/
"Why West Georgia Technical College": https://youtu.be/_4jM3zIGXKw?si=3Xp1_B_AZaLJSQBm
Click here to register to attend the IN PERSON tour: https://forms.gle/k3rAkuJmB4w21p8Z9
The GCA Counseling Department is conducting an In-Person College Tour at the University of West Georgia In-Person Carrollton, GA Campus on Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 11AM to 1PM. This is not a virtual tour, so please do not register if you are not able to travel in person to the campus in Carrollton, Georgia.
Students, please consult with your parents or legal guardians before completing the registration form to ensure you will travel to the campus in Carrollton, Georgia. You and your parent/guardian, if they are planning to attend, will drive and meet us at the University of West Georgia Carrollton, GA campus (the itinerary with all relevant information will be sent after registering). We will receive a walking tour of their immaculate campus, receive information about their collegiate programs and majors, housing, meal plans, admission requirements, tuition, and scholarships. There are 50 reserved slots for this tour (High School students have priority registration). Sign up today! The deadline to register is Tuesday, October 13, 2026 or the registration will close once the 50 slots are filled.
Click here to view the flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jWDuT5cIJd6gZKkOOcXS0TNKtVOdhzPn/view?usp=sharing
To learn more about the University of West Georgia: https://www.westga.edu/
"Why UWG": https://youtu.be/PwmYRDioh08?si=63SlDW9jJJ_z6f-R
Click here to register to attend the IN PERSON tour: https://forms.gle/weZXYyHb5rVa93fQA
đź’»Virtual College Visitsđź’»
Have you started thinking about where you might want to go to college? Here’s your chance to learn more about Augusta University without ever leaving your virtual classroom!
Join us for a Virtual College Visit with Augusta University on Thursday, October 8th at 12:00 PM! Whether you’re interested in healthcare, cybersecurity, business, psychology, criminal justice, education, the arts, or you’re still trying to figure out your path, this is a great opportunity to explore what AU has to offer.
Event Details:
When: Thursday, October 8th at 12:00 PM
Where: https://georgiacyber.class.com/class/2f740020-8b9e-4f36-95cb-a689ef58eb66
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j6ZFQP6J5u7O39Ox-4ezwiun-Nl_7M19/view
Fun Facts & Why You Should Check Out Augusta University:
150+ Areas of Study: Explore programs in healthcare, business, cybersecurity, computer science, criminal justice, psychology, education, fine arts, nursing, kinesiology, and many more.
Healthcare Opportunities: Augusta University is home to the Medical College of Georgia and the Dental College of Georgia.
Cyber & Technology Programs: Interested in technology? AU offers programs in areas such as cybersecurity, computer science, information technology, data science, and cybersecurity engineering.
More Than Just STEM: Students can also explore programs such as business, communication, criminal justice, psychology, fine arts, education, political science, and more.
Even if Augusta University isn’t currently on your college list, come check it out! You may discover a major, program, or opportunity you didn’t know existed.
Bring your questions and come learn what it means to be a Jaguar!
Have you started thinking about a career in film, television, entertainment, or digital media production? Here’s your chance to learn how to break into Georgia’s booming entertainment industry without ever leaving your virtual classroom!
Join us for a Virtual College Visit with the Georgia Film Academy on Thursday, October 22nd at 12:00 PM! Whether you’re interested in film production, set construction, digital editing, esports, sound design, or you’re curious about how movies and TV shows get made right here in Georgia, this is an incredible opportunity to explore what GFA has to offer.
Event Details:
When: Thursday, October 22nd at 12:00 PM
Where: https://georgiacyber.class.com/class/2f740020-8b9e-4f36-95cb-a689ef58eb66
Fun Facts & Why You Should Check Out Georgia Film Academy:
Industry-Standard Hands-On Training: Learn direct, practical skills from industry professionals in film & television production, post-production, sound, and digital media.
Direct Path to Georgia’s Film Industry: Georgia is one of the top film filming locations in the world! GFA works directly with major studios (like Marvel, Netflix, and Disney) to train students for real on-set jobs.
Earn Dual Credit / College Credentials: GFA collaborates with Georgia high schools, technical colleges, and universities, allowing students to earn high-demand industry certifications while fulfilling degree or high school pathway requirements.
High-Demand Career Pathways: Explore specialized fields such as Lighting & Electric, Grip & Rigging, On-Set Costuming, Film Editing, Sound Design, Esports & Game Integration, and Production Management.
Real Internship Opportunities: Eligible students get the chance to work directly on active studio lots and production sets across Georgia!
Can’t make it live? No worries! A recording of the session will be posted after the event on our VCCC page: https://sites.google.com/georgiacyber.org/virtualcollegeandcareercenter/college/college-tours-and-visits.
Even if a career in film or media isn’t currently at the top of your list, come check it out! You might discover an exciting major, creative career, or hands-on industry opportunity you didn’t know existed.
Bring your questions and come learn what it takes to work behind the scenes in Georgia’s film industry!
Which location will you choose?đź‘€
You can click on the photo to register or click HERE
Virtual College Fair (This is not a GCA College Fair)
Thinking about life after high school? Don't miss the NACAC (National Association for College Admission Counseling) Virtual College Fair! You can register HERE
This free online event gives students and families a chance to connect with admissions representatives from hundreds of colleges and universities across the nation and internationally all from the comfort of home.
Senior Corner
Very Important-Diploma Verification
Seniors,
Check your GCA Gmail for an email sent Sept. 15 from Cmcdade@georgiacyber.org (Important Graduation Information – Diploma Verification).
Fill out the form to confirm your legal name. If your name needs fixing, select "No" and contact your FEL to update Infinite Campus by December 4, 2026. Unconfirmed diplomas will automatically be printed with the name currently on file in Infinite Campus as of August 1, 2026.
📆Save the date!🎓
🎮 Level Up: Class of 2027 Fall Senior Shout-Out!
Seniors, get ready to showcase your achievements! Join us on Thursday, November 19th at 10:45 AM (during Advisement) for our Fall Senior Shout-Out Event.
Every senior who submits their post-secondary plans will get a custom "Player Profile Gaming Card" created to highlight their accomplishments (example below) plus, you'll be automatically entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card! đź’ł
What to Share:
College: Applications, acceptances, and scholarships (including HOPE/Zell eligibility).
Military: Your planned branch of enlistment.
Career: Job promotions, internships, or work plans after high school.
Honors & Community Service: Academic awards or volunteer work.
🗓️ Deadline to Submit: November 16th
đź”— Submit Your Info Here: Class of 2027 Submission Form
(Event link to come. We can't wait to see what levels our Class of 2027 unlocks!)
💵The next scholarship squad meeting is on October 27th🏫
Come join the GCA Scholarship Squad as we dive into scholarship information, how to find scholarships, what's needed to apply, what to look for, and more!
Want to start applying for and winning money for college? You can start NOW! 9th-12th graders and their families are invited to attend our monthly Scholarship Workshop of the year Tuesday, October 27th at 11:45am.
Should you take the SAT or ACT?
These tests are optional, but if you’re planning to attend a 2- or 4-year college, it’s worth looking into taking the SAT and/or ACT to meet admissions requirements. Check the admissions page for the college(s) you’re interested in to see what test scores, if any, they require. Some scholarships also require standardized test scores. If you’re unsure which test is right for you, talk to your high school counselor.
SAT test dates, deadlines, and registration:
https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/dates-deadlines
ACT test dates, deadlines, and registration:
https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration.html
Want to see if you qualify for for a free fee waiver to take either of these tests?
Fee waiver eligibility survey:
Fill out the form below, or scan the QR code above for quick access.
Red Ribbon Week Events for October 26th-30th
GCA SGB Counseling Department
Stay in the know! Follow us on X@gcacounseling or on Instagram @gcacounseling
Website: https://www.georgiacyber.org/school-life/counseling
Location: 1745 Phoenix Boulevard, College Park, GA, USA
Phone: 404-334-4790
Twitter (X): @gcacounseling