CCMR/Counseling Newsletter
College, Career & Military Readiness - February, 2025
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.
Upcoming Events
Education is Freedom
Master Class: Senior Final Steps
Students, are you wondering how to accept admission, accept grants or decline loans, sign up for orientation plus room and board?
Then join EIF, Wed, February 5 from 6-7pm. Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/eif-mc-senior-final-steps-tickets-995534018047?aff=erelpanelorg
*Students must use the EIF App to get Master Class recordings, links to applications, official SAT/ACT sites, EIF Scholars information, mindfulness resources, and so much more!
Wednesday, Feb 5, 2025, 06:00 PM
Scholarship Opportunities
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!!
Raise.Me Scholarship Opportunities (9th - 12th grades)
Scholarships Made Simple
How it works
Five Easy Steps to Sign up
Additional Scholarship Resources
Advanced Academics Information
20 Helpful Websites to Assist Students in Preparing for the SAT and ACT Exams
Gifted & Talented Program Highlights
Across the district, Gifted & Talented (GT) students have been actively engaged in activities that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.
- Critical Thinking Development – GT students have been sharpening their reasoning skills through logic puzzles, enhancing their ability to analyze, strategize, and think critically.
- Engineering Design Challenges – Students have been applying STEM concepts in exciting hands-on projects:
- Grades 6-8: Focused on Force and Motion Racers, exploring the principles of physics, speed, and energy transfer.
- 2nd Grade: Engaged in Physical Properties Bridge Building, developing an understanding of material strength, stability, and design.
These initiatives continue to challenge and inspire GT students, preparing them for advanced problem-solving and innovation.
Career & Technical Education (CTE)
CTE Month Recognition & Student Achievements
As we celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month this February, we want to recognize the outstanding efforts of our CTE department, educators, and students. This school year, 164 students have successfully earned an Industry-Based Certification (IBC), demonstrating their dedication and career readiness.
Additionally, our Business Professionals of America (BPA) students recently competed in the Regional Leadership Competition, where four students received top honors. These students have advanced to the state-level competition, where they will proudly represent our district.
The continued success of our CTE programs reflects the district’s commitment to preparing students for future careers through hands-on learning, industry partnerships, and academic excellence. We look forward to celebrating these achievements and supporting our students in their future endeavors.
CTE Planning Guide
Students & parents can view the CTE Student Planning Guide to select courses for the 2025-2026 school year.
Counselors' Corner
Educational Planning: Schedule Your Advisement Session
Educational planning is a critical step in ensuring each student’s success on their academic journey. To support this process, our school counselors are conducting advisement sessions with students and parents in grades 5 through 11. During these sessions, we will work together to develop and update an individualized education plan tailored for postsecondary success.
The courses identified in each student’s educational plan will be utilized for the 2025–2026 course enrollments. To assist in this process, we’ve provided the 2025–2026 Course Catalogs. Please review the appropriate document linked below to explore the wide range of course options available.
We encourage you to contact your school counselor to schedule an advisement session and review this important information. These sessions are an invaluable opportunity to align your student’s academic choices with their long-term goals. We look forward to working with you!
Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy
Community Circles by lead peer mediators
This year, Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy has introduced Community Circles, an initiative led by student leaders and implemented by the school counselor, Mrs. Shirley Robinson. These circles provide a supportive space for students to engage in meaningful discussions, build relationships, and develop leadership and communication skills.
By fostering collaboration, empathy, and student empowerment, Community Circles are helping to create a more inclusive and connected school culture. This initiative highlights the importance of student-led engagement in promoting a positive and supportive learning environment.
GEAR UP Programs in DeSoto ISD
College Driven GEAR UP Program Newsletter
Next Generation GEAR UP Program Newsletter
Parent Resources
Nine Easy Homework Help Tips Every Parent Should Know
Parent Guides to Student Success
Parents Guide Contents (K-8 and High School)
The guides include:
- Key items children should be learning in English language arts and mathematics in each grade.
- Activities that parents can do at home to support their child's learning.
- Methods for helping parents build stronger relationships with their child's teacher.
Tips for planning for college and career (high school only).
https://www.pta.org/home/family-resources/Parents-Guides-to-Student-Success