Dubiski Counselor Connection

September is here — a month that brings the start of fall, cooler weather, and all the cozy vibes that come with the season. Along with the shift in seasons, September is also filled with meaningful events and awareness campaigns on and around campus. This month we’ll be highlighting Rise Up Week, National Hispanic Heritage Month, and the annual GPISD College Fair.

Now that the back-to-school rush has settled, this is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and set intentions for the year ahead. Setting goals can help you stay focused and make the most of your high school experience. Here are a few tips to get started:

• Set academic goals: Aim for a specific GPA, stay on top of assignments, or commit to daily study habits.

• Build healthy routines: Prioritize sleep, manage stress, and carve out time for hobbies or activities that bring joy.

• Get involved: Join a club, sport, or volunteer activity to stay connected and build leadership skills.

• Plan for the future: Start exploring college and career options, especially with the College Fair coming up!

This September, let’s embrace the season of growth, connection, and opportunity. 🌟

Just like you check your phone, check in with YOU:

💭 How am I feeling today—physically, mentally, emotionally?
💧 What do I need right now? (rest, water, movement, connection, focus)
🤝 Who can I talk to if I need support?

Remember: It’s okay not to feel okay every day. Reaching out for help shows strength.

Take it one step at a time. Growth happens outside your comfort zone.

Each day this month, take just 5 minutes to practice mindfulness. Choose one of these:

🫁 5 Deep Breaths – Pause between classes, take 5 slow breaths.
🙏 5 Gratitudes – Write down 5 things you’re thankful for today.
🚶 5-Minute Walk – Take a mindful walk, notice what you see and hear.
💌 5 Kind Acts – Do 5 small acts of kindness (smile, compliment, hold the door)

September 1:

• Labor Day
• Dallas County Promise Kick-off

September 2:

• Dallas County Promise Presentations - HSE (9:15-10:00) & BCO (10:45-11:30)

September 3:

• Dallas County Promise Presentation - HST (9:15-10:00)

September 4:

• Jostens Junior & Senior Class Ring Orders (Atrium - during all lunches)
• HS Meet the Teacher Night, 6:00-7:30 pm

• GPISD College Night @ SGP 6:00-8:00 pm

September 17:

• Fall Picture Day

September 19:

• National Why Apply Day

September 22-23:

• CTSO Rush Days (Atrium during all lunches)

September 25-26:

• Club Rally Days (Atrium during all lunches)

September 26:

• TSI Testing (click here for registration info)

September 9-12 is a time where we challenge you to Rise up—for strength, for tomorrow, and for each other. Rise Up Week is a reminder that even in stressful times, we can support one another, stay hopeful about the future, and find resilience within ourselves. Let’s embrace this week as a chance to grow stronger together and celebrate the power of rising up.

This special event is designed to connect students and families with colleges, universities, and scholarship opportunities. Come explore the many pathways available after high school and meet with higher education partners who are eager to support your student’s future success.

📍 Location: South Grand Prairie High School
301 W. Warrior Trail, Grand Prairie, TX 75052

📅 Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

This is a wonderful opportunity to gather valuable information about college admissions, career planning, and financial aid—all in one place!

We encourage all students and families to attend. Don’t miss out on this important step toward preparing for life after high school.

👉 See the flyer below to RSVP and reserve your spot!

Senate Bill 12 requires parent consent for students to receive school-based health and emotional wellness services.

In accordance with the new Texas law, SB12, Grand Prairie ISD is requesting written consent for your child to receive school-based health and emotional wellness services from qualified district personnel. The personnel may include school nurses, counselors, social workers, athletic trainers, and other certified health & mental health professionals.

This legislation mandates that parents/guardians are fully informed and give permission for care and support. In a serious emergency, staff will still act to protect your child’s safety and will contact you immediately. Staff may verbally inquire about a student’s daily well-being.

Providing consent allows your child access to timely and equitable services supporting your child’s health, safety, wellness, and readiness to learn. Without your consent, staff will be limited in the services they can provide to your child during the school day.

Students are no longer permitted to utilize a personal laptop or tablet. These devices are now prohibited by state law for use in schools in addition to cell phones, headphones and earbuds, smart watches, smart glasses, paging devices, gaming devices, and all other devices capable of communicating wirelessly.

All students have been issued a GPISD iPad to facilitate digital learning as well as district, state, and national assessments. The iPad’s protective case may not be removed or replaced with a personal one.

Please make sure your child brings his or her district iPad to Dubiski each day — updated and charged!

In addition, mobile device insurance can be purchased through Friday, October 31. Visit the School News link on the webpage for details:

Optional mobile device insurance is now available to purchase for students and staff until Friday, October 31, via MySchoolBucks.

• Already have a MSB account? Click here for a direct link to purchase.
• Need a MSB account? Click this link to sign up.

If you’re interested in taking the TSIA2 Test on Thursday, September 26th, space is limited—only 30 slots are available! Slots will be filled first come, first served based on students who submit all required documentation by the deadline: Monday, September 22nd at 4:30 p.m.

To be eligible to take the TSIA2, you must complete the following steps: [click the link below].

Don’t wait—complete your steps early to secure your spot and take the next step toward your college and career goals!

The DCHS Counseling Department is continuously looking for ways to improve the way we meet the needs of all students and your feedback is critical. We would like your assistance in planning and developing programs by completing a needs assessment survey.

The survey is anonymous and will not require any identifying information. We would appreciate your time answering the short list of questions. Please click the link below to get started.

The college admissions process can feel overwhelming — with so much information (and misinformation) out there, it’s hard to know what really matters. That’s why we’re sharing a recent Class 101 webinar recording that clears up the confusion and focuses on what colleges truly look for beyond grades and test scores.

This session dives into how students can stand out in the admissions process and, more importantly, how to grow into the kind of student and leader colleges are genuinely excited to admit.

This recording is a great resource for any student who plans to go to college and wants to understand how to shine beyond GPA and test scores.

• Involvement & Experiences: It’s not just about joining activities — it’s about making your involvement meaningful. Sports, clubs, community service, and work experiences all help tell your story.

• Personal Growth: Colleges want to see who you’ve become through your high school journey — your resilience, leadership, creativity, and impact on others.

• Quality Over Quantity: Admissions officers aren’t impressed by a long list of activities. What matters is depth, commitment, and growth in the opportunities you choose.

• Authenticity Matters: Standing out isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being real. Your essays, applications, and interviews should reflect who you truly are.

• What experiences have shaped you most during high school?

• How are you showing growth in leadership, creativity, or service?

• How can you use your story to highlight what makes you unique?

Starting high school can feel exciting and overwhelming—but with the right focus, you can set yourself up for success! Use this checklist to guide your 9th-grade year:

✅ Challenge Yourself Academically – Focus on your current courses and aim to do your best. Passing courses with a 70 or higher earns you valuable credits toward graduation.

✅ Join Clubs and Organizations – Explore your passions and interests. Extracurricular involvement can also help you build leadership skills!

✅ Build Relationships – Get to know your teachers, counselors, and club sponsors. Strong connections make a big difference throughout high school.

✅ Volunteer – While community service isn’t required, completing 100+ hours by senior year looks good on your college/scholarship applications, and can earn you a special graduation cord (*if you are apart of NHS). Keep track of your hours using this form.

✅ Understand Graduation Requirements – Make sure you know the courses and End-of-Course (EOC) exams required for graduation. Many freshmen take English 1, Algebra 1, and Biology EOCs.

✅ Review Your 4-Year Plan – Start thinking about your future course selections:

• Interested in Dual Credit? Check admission criteria early.

• Enjoy your CTE courses? Plan additional pathway classes.

• Are you taking enough challenges? Consider advanced or initial AP courses to balance rigor with your interests.

Freshman year is your foundation—take charge, stay organized, and enjoy the journey!

Being a sophomore is all about building a strong foundation for your future. Use this checklist to stay on track and make the most of your 10th-grade year:

• 📚 Focus on your grades – strong academics open doors for college and career opportunities.

• 🎭 Stay involved in activities – quality over quantity! Aim for leadership roles in CTSO's and clubs, volunteer, land an internship or get a part-time.

• 🎓 Plan ahead – keep graduation requirements in mind as you think about junior and senior year.

• 💼 Explore careers – take career assessments like the one at CareerOneStop.org and consider your future plans.

• 🏫 Think about college – start reflecting on what you want in a college or postsecondary option.

• ✍️ Start your resume – to track your activities and achievements. Canva has some excellent FREE templates for students, and Grammarly has some action words to get you noticed! Harvard University has also created some great free resources!

• ✅ Pass the English II EOC – it’s required for graduation.

• 📝 Take the PreACT in October – it’s practice this year, but a great way to prepare for future tests.

• 🎯 Practice for the SAT/ACT – use MasteryPrep (access via Clever) to complete practice tests and receive an instant report about how well you did and what areas to improve upon.

• 🪖 Consider the ASVAB exam – watch for campus announcements if you’re interested.

• 📄 Know how your GPA works – looking to maximize your GPA potential, consider taking advanced, AP, OnRamps or Dual Credit course.

• 🔧 Look into Industry-Based Certificates (IBC) – talk to your CTE teachers about earning career-ready credentials.

• 📘 Review your 4-year plan – during Course Selection adjust your courses for 11th–12th grade.

  • Interested in Dual Credit? Review admission criteria now.

  • Loving your CTE pathway? Plan for advanced courses in your field.

  • Check your course balance – challenge yourself, but don’t overload.

Your sophomore year is the perfect time to rise to the challenge, explore your interests, and start shaping your path toward life after high school!

Check out the junior checklist below to make sure you are on track for a path to college, career, or military:

🍂 Fall (11th Grade)

• 📚 Challenge yourself in classes & keep grades strong – your junior transcript is what colleges will see first!

• 🎭 Stay active & involved – update your resume with activities, community service, jobs, and awards.

• 🎓 Explore colleges – attend the GPISD College Night, take a virtual tour - find college virtual tours on platforms like YouVisit, CampusTours, and TheCollegeTour.com

• 📝 Take the PSAT in October – this counts toward National Merit consideration (only select juniors will test, but if you paid to take the test before the deadline, you're in!)

• 🎯 Prep for ACT/SAT –use MasteryPrep (access via Clever) to complete practice tests and receive an instant report about how well you did and what areas to improve upon.

• 🪖 Consider the ASVAB – take it if offered and you’re interested.

• 🗂 Review your 4-year plan – make thoughtful course selections for 12th grade:

• Check Dual Credit admission criteria now.

• Find the right balance between challenging vs. manageable courses.

• Balance satisfying graduation requirements with meeting College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) indicators

🌸 Spring (11th Grade)

• 🎓 Attend junior college events – learn about admissions requirements and processes.

• 🎯 Know your options – review Texas automatic admission criteria.

• 🏫 Narrow your college list – focus on schools that fit your goals.

• ⚽ Register with the NCAA – if you play sports outside of school and you’re interested in playing college sports.

• ✍️ Take the ACT or SAT – required for some colleges. All juniors take the ACT in March.

• 📄 Know how your GPA works – looking to maximize your GPA potential, consider taking advanced, AP, OnRamps or Dual Credit course.

• 🔧 Look into Industry-Based Certificates (IBC) – talk with your CTE teachers about credentials in your pathway.

• ✅ Pass the U.S. History EOC – required for graduation.

Pro Tip: Junior year is your last big chance to strengthen your GPA, experiences, and college readiness before senior year applications. Stay focused, stay involved, and start building your future today!

Seniors, this is it—your final year of high school! It’s time to start making serious moves toward your post-graduation plans.

👉 Join us for Senior Chats with the Counselors from September 8–15 during your Government/Economics class.

During these important meetings, we will:

• Review your academic progress

• Finalize your graduation requirements

• Prepare you for life after Dubiski—whether that means college, career, or the military

✅ What to Bring:

• Your fully-charged device (GPISD iPad or personal laptop)

• A pen or pencil

Let’s make this senior year count and set you up for success beyond high school!

If you’re applying to colleges through Common App you must add your counselor to your account in order for them to complete the required school report and submit a recommendation, if required. Please make sure you follow these steps:

1. Complete the Education Section of Common App

2. Add a College to your application list

3. Open the College Questions for that school

4. Scroll down to Recommenders and FERPA

5. Complete the Release Authorization

6. WAIVE your FERPA rights (this allows colleges to view recommendations as confidential)

7. Invite your Academy Counselor

8. Invite Ms. Preston as your Advisor - This will allow her to remind you of missing documents and incomplete applications.

If you require a letter of recommendation for a scholarship, college application, or other educational opportunity, please message your Counselor at least TWO weeks prior to the application deadline. This will allow processing time for counselor's to fulfill your request.

You will need to complete your Brag Sheet and attach it to the email to your counselor, along with your Resume, if you have one. The information provided on your brag sheet will allow your counselor to write a comprehensive and detailed counselor recommendation letter. The content of your recommendation letter can have a great impact on your admittance into your college/university of choice or the scholarship to which you are applying. Counselor recommendation requests will NOT be completed until a Brag Sheet is completed!

COUNSELORS ARE NOT AVAILABLE TO WRITE LETTERS OVER EXTENDED BREAKS, SO IT'S IMPORTANT TO PLAN AHEAD!

Seniors, don’t leave money on the table! There are tons of scholarships out there waiting for you—and many don’t require perfect grades or test scores. Scholarships are a great way to help pay for college, career training, or other post-graduation plans. Check out the GPISD Scholarship page here and start applying today. The more you apply, the better your chances of earning free money for your future!

Counselors are available to assist and advise each student with personal/social concerns, academic concerns, career exploration and choices, course selections, college choices, scholarship applications, recommendation letters, test score interpretation, setting goals, examining post-secondary options, and any special situations that may be important to a student.

• Students, If you have a quick question you'd like to ask your counselor, feel free to send a message in CANVAS. Your counselor will message you back within 24-48 hours.
• Walk-ins are available during non-instructional time (before/after school, during lunch, or during an off period).
• Students may also see their counselor anytime during the school day with a pass from their teacher.
• If your counselor is unavailable, students may schedule an appointment with their academy counselor, by scanning the QR Code below.
  

Parent Meeting Requests: Counselors make students a priority during the school day. Therefore, we encourage parents to make an appointment prior to coming to the campus to ensure your student's counselor is available, to avoid scheduling conflicts, and to ensure you will have the time you need to address your concerns and questions. To make an appointment please use the QR code to schedule a time to meet with your student's counselor.

*Please note that the Counseling Department Office Hours are from 8:30 - 4:00 M-F

2990 South Highway 161

Grand Praire, Tx, 75052

https://www.gpisd.org/Domain/11979

Vision

The Vision of John A. Dubiski Career High School Counseling Department is to GUIDE students to their highest potential by CREATING self-disciplined, motivated and responsible learners who will be our FUTURE LEADERS that will respond to worldly issues and advocate for equity for humankind. The comprehensive school counseling program will focus on academic, career and social-emotional needs to support students’ college, career and military readiness.

Mission

The mission of the John A. Dubiski High School Counseling Services program, in partnership with other educators, parents/guardians and community stakeholders is to provide a comprehensive, developmental counseling program that PROVIDES EQUITY AND ACCESS FOR ALL STUDENTS that addresses academic, social-emotional, and career development. The program ensures all students are self-directed, life-long learners who are college, career and military future-ready.