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Senior yearbook photos are due by 10/31.Use this link to submit senior photos under portraits

Event Details:

• Date: Wednesday, October 29th, 2025
• Time: 6:00 pm
• Location: Cherry Creek High School
  9300 E Union Ave
  Greenwood Village, CO 80111-1306
• RSVP: Registration Link

During the Admissions Brief, we will discuss:

1. What West Point Offers: Learn why West Point stands as a premier institution for leadership development, academic excellence, and character growth.
2. Life as a Cadet: Gain firsthand insights into the daily life of a West Point Cadet, including academics, athletics, and leadership training.
3. The Application Process: Understand the steps to apply to West Point and gather valuable tips to enhance your application.

Please see above detailed information on the event. Space is limited, so be sure to secure your spot at the event and RSVP as soon as possible.

• HRHS College Fair during Access, Thursday, March 13, 2025

Students, I will send a confirmation email once your materials (transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc) are sent to your colleges. I am in the process of manually sending all of the materials so I am not responding to emails in a timely manner in an attempt to process transcripts and letters quickly by the November 1 deadlines. You are welcome to stop by the office to speak to me in person.

From an article by Lisa Freedland and Savannah Dawson

“To be, or not to be,” that is the question, right? Perhaps, but if you’re in the process of applying to colleges, “To send, or not to send (your standardized test scores)?” may seem a little more applicable. With more and more schools going “test optional,” it can be difficult to decide whether or not to send your scores in. So, to make applying to colleges a little easier for you, we’ve compiled a quick list of things to consider when making that choice. Let’s get into it!

What does “test optional” mean?

If a university claims they are “test optional,” applicants can send in their standardized (SAT or ACT) test scores for consideration with their application. However, they are not required to send in their standardized test scores. If scores are not sent, the school simply bases their admission decision off the rest of the application. Test optional schools will not look negatively upon students who choose to not submit test scores. They are “test optional” for a reason, so no need to worry about that.

So, you now know the basics of “test optional” schools. Perhaps, though, you’ve heard of another, similar term: “test blind.” What does this mean?

“Test optional” vs. “test blind”

While “test optional” schools will allow students to send in standardized test scores, “test blind” universities will not consider test scores for admission purposes. If you send standardized test scores to a test blind school, your scores have no impact on admission.

Thus, while it is unlikely that a “test blind” school would penalize you for sending in standardized test scores, we recommend not sending your scores. They will not be considered and it’d be a waste of money!

Research which schools are test-optional

Before you consider not sending standardized test scores to colleges, research and be 100% sure that those schools are test-optional. If a school turns out to not be test-optional and you don’t send in test scores, your application will be incomplete. Remember to do your research! This website (

https://fairtest.org/test-optional-list/) is a good, quick resource to determine if your school is test-optional.

Top things to consider before you send a SAT/ACT score

For those that are test-optional, though, here are some factors to consider when deciding whether or not to send in those standardized test scores:

• The competitiveness of the schools you’re applying to: Perhaps the first question you should ask when deciding whether or not to send your scores is, “How competitive are the schools I’m applying to?” While this question may seem somewhat irrelevant at first, it certainly helps to consider the group of applicants you’re applying with. For example, if you’re applying to a school with an acceptance rate of around 30-40%, having stellar grades, extracurriculars, and essays will likely be enough to grant you acceptance – even without standardized test scores.On the other hand, if applying to a top or Ivy-League level university, it is likely that the admissions pool is full of many other amazing students. Thus, whether or not you are admitted to such highly competitive schools may come down to the smallest of factors, including standardized test scores. Let’s say that you and another applicant are judged against each other. Both of you have similarly great GPAs, extracurriculars, and essays. In this case, a high SAT or ACT score on top of your application might just give you the extra boost you need for admission. This might be especially true if the other applicant did not send in their scores. Thus, unless you think your score is not necessarily “high” or competitive enough for a school, we recommend sending in standardized test scores to top colleges.
• Consider your schools’ average scores: Each university has a unique range of SAT and ACT scores that they accept. Usually, you can find what these are by typing “*insert university name* average SAT (or ACT).” What will typically show up is the middle 50% of accepted SAT/ACT scores into that college (think the 25th-75th percentile). If determined to get into a particular school, we highly recommend you aim for a score within this range (and on the higher end, if possible). However, if you received a score below your school’s 25th percentile for either the SAT or ACT, we might recommend not sending this score to test-optional schools – as it may lower your chances of admission.
• Does your SAT/ACT score complement your GPA?: Another factor to consider is how your standardized test scores compare to your other “stats,” such as GPA. What constitutes a “high” GPA and SAT or ACT score is highly subjective. Therefore, it is a good idea to look at the most recent class profile of the schools you’re applying to. If your GPA and SAT or ACT score are both relatively high in comparison to the class average, then definitely submit those scores! Or, if you find that your GPA is somewhat low, but your standardized test scores are somewhat high, then sending them in could definitely be a boost to your application. On the other hand, if you find that you have a relatively high GPA but low SAT or ACT score, sending such scores in could potentially lower your chances of admission. If your standardized test score is within the middle 50% range or anywhere above a school’s 25th percentile, you will likely be fine as you have a high GPA. After all, while a GPA represents all the hard work you’ve completed over four years, a standardized test score reflects a few hours within your day. Thus, your GPA definitely does carry more weight than your SAT (for most schools, at least).
• If you have any special circumstances: Some students, like those in athletics or those looking to apply for special scholarships or programs, may find that they are required to send in their standardized test scores to retain eligibility for such activities. Thus, before you decide not to send your scores to colleges, it’s best to make sure you don’t fall into one of these categories beforehand. Let’s take a look.
• Athletics: In January 2023, NCAA Divisions I and II adopted legislation to remove standardized test scores from initial-eligibility requirements for all student-athletes who initially enroll full time on or after August 1, 2023. Despite this action taken by the NCAA, specific university athletic programs may still require prospective athletes to send in their standardized test scores. So, if you are a prospective college athlete, we highly recommend reaching out to the coaches of the programs you’re interested in. Find out for sure whether or not you’ll need to send in your standardized test scores.
• Scholarships or Special Programs: Similarly, specific scholarships or special programs may still necessitate that interested applicants submit their standardized test scores. While some universities have started awarding merit aid to students without requiring SAT or ACT scores, this is not the case for all colleges. So, if you’re planning on applying to any scholarships, special programs, or anything else of the sort at your university, your best bet is to check the policy on every application.

We urge students not to be embarrassed or feel ashamed about not sending their standardized test scores. It is completely normal, and is simply the wise choice sometimes. It also does not reflect badly on you as a student – people perform better in different types of environments. Ultimately, however, no matter whether you decide to send in your test scores or not, we wish you the best of luck with your college applications. Have fun in college, and make sure that you apply for all the scholarships you qualify for while you are eligible!

Admissions representatives will be in POST GRAD to provide a brief overview of each institution, information on admissions and financial aid, and a chance to speak informally with admissions representatives. You should register to attend and then come by post grad to pick up a hall pass if the visit is during class time.

• Call or e-mail Post Grad (contact info on the Post Grad home page) or Register with RepVisits

THIS WEEK:

• 29-Oct, 2:00pm, Wyoming Tech, Laramie, WY

NEXT WEEK:

• 5-Nov, 12:30pm, Dean College, Franklin, MA

I've been able to attend the Colleges that Change Lives and Jesuit Educational Tour meet and greets in which schools gave a 5 minute presentation (a snapshot of their institution). I'll highlight some points of pride over the next few newsletters.

Emory & Henry University, founded in 1836, is a liberal arts college in Emory, Virginia, named after Bishop John Emory and Patrick Henry. Notable facts include its student body (1,083 undergraduate, 224 graduate) and a 96% acceptance rate. The university's "Wasps" athletic teams recently moved to full NCAA Division II membership and have a strong history in football. Key campus features include a naturally heated duck pond, a Center for Outdoor Studies, and a Health Sciences Campus in Marion.

The Evergreen State College, located in Olympia, Washington is a public liberal arts institution known for its innovative and collaborative learning style, which includes unique academic programs and a self-evaluation-based grading system. It is recognized for its affordability, environmental leadership, and a focus on interdisciplinary study, with a large campus that includes forests and beach access.

Marquette University is known for its Catholic, Jesuit mission, high job placement rates (ranked sixth nationally for 10-year post-graduation placement), and strong undergraduate teaching (ranked #17 nationally by U.S. News & World Report for 2024). It is also recognized for being environmentally responsible and for being a pioneer in gender equity, as the first Catholic university in the world to educate women and men together.

Saint Louis University (SLU) is known for its strong academic programs in areas like health care, business, and law, its commitment to Jesuit values like faith and service, and its life-changing research. It is also recognized for its military-friendliness, sustainability efforts, and as a top private university value. The university is also a member of the NCAA Division I in 18 sports and is the first Jesuit university to receive the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award.

Students will meet with their counselor to go over the application process and steps they need to take have everything ready to submit. It is also covered on the post grad webpage or see Mrs. Sadler in Post Grad.

The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) was established in 1987 to make college more affordable and accessible to students in the West. Through WUE, students from the WICHE region* can choose from hundreds of undergraduate programs across the West and pay no more than 150% of the institution’s resident tuition rate. Today, more than 170 public colleges and universities offer reduced tuition rates through WUE to qualifying students. Participating schools offer these discounted rates to help students avoid the full cost of pursuing higher education outside their home state and minimize the impact of student loan debt. Find your perfect match. Download the list of WUE schools and use the online WUE Tuition Savings Finder to see how much you can save.

This free conference on Friday, February 6, 2026 is designed to help aspiring teachers learn more about the field, connect with peers and gather insights from Colorado’s leader in teacher education. We will also be welcoming back Steve Spangler as our keynote speaker to host an interactive start to our event that your students are sure to love!

Now in its 11th year, Future Teacher Conference features presentations and workshops facilitated by preservice teachers (current UNC students), early career teachers, veteran educators, and UNC Educator Preparation faculty. Anyone curious or exploring the field of teaching is encouraged to attend!

Registration will open November 3. In the meantime, you can learn more about the conference here. BONUS! Three Future Teacher Conference attendees will be selected to receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend UNC in the fall of 2026.

The CUPS Program provides academic enrichment, community-building, and hands-on experiences designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare and beyond. It is a unique opportunity for motivated students to explore their interests, connect with peers and mentors, and build a strong foundation for their future. This year promises to be another impactful journey of growth, learning, and opportunity for future healthcare leaders.

Application Window: Open now through November 1, 2025
Apply Here: CUPS Application Link

Eligibility: Students may apply based on their current grade level (Fall 2025):

• 8th grade → apply for the 9th grade cohort
• 9th grade → apply for the 10th grade cohort
• and so on through high school progression
  

Program Details

• All sessions are required for participation

• Sessions will be held in person at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus

• Learn more on our website: CUPS Program Information

Registration is now open for the 3rd annual CU Boulder High School New Venture Challenge (HSNVC)- powered by FirstBank. See attached flyer for more details and registration info.

The HSNVC is specifically designed to bring entrepreneurial learning and innovative mindsets to high school students across Colorado, with a particular focus on rural, underserved, and 1st generation students. This one-of-a-kind program offers:

• $25,000+ in scholarships to CU Boulder
• Hands-on experience in entrepreneurship and innovation
• Development of critical real-world problem-solving, strategic, and leadership skills

Whether you dream of starting a business, solving world challenges, or excelling in your future vocations - this challenge equips them with the tools, confidence, and mindset to succeed.

The initial registration is easy and all you need is a basic preliminary idea to sign up. It’s open now until Jan 31, 2026. Participants then have until March 25, 2026 to more fully develop the idea and prepare their competition materials (2-page executive summary + 4-minute video pitch).

Students REGISTER HERE

Learn More About HSNVC

High School Leadership Conference (HSLC) is a three-day adventure into leadership exclusively for high school juniors from across the United States. The conference will take place on February 20 to 22, 2026, on the OU campus in Norman, Oklahoma. The application is open now through January 19!​

HSLC aims to equip, empower, and inspire high school juniors to realize their leadership potential through innovative and unique programming. Students who attend HSLC receive development that allows them to become better leaders, discover ways to positively impact their schools and communities, learn about working with others, and understand more about applying for and attending college.

Watch our video recapping the conference from earlier this year to see what HSLC is all about! We also encourage students to follow our Instagram account @cac_hslc.

Applicants do not need to be involved in Student Council and/or leadership to apply. This conference is for ALL students in organizations, clubs, and activities. Additionally, the High School Leadership Conference provides need-based tuition waivers of various amounts available for applicants requiring financial assistance.

Hotel accommodations will be provided for campers in Norman, OK.

If you or your high school juniors have any questions, please feel free to contact us at hslc@ou.edu.

• Check the Scholarship website on the HRHS website for scholarships and scholarship search engines to help you find scholarships that meet your qualifications.
• I update scholarships that are sent to HRHS seeking potential applicants weekly. It is sorted by application due date.
• I will also post some in this newsletter

The Road Home Exteriors Scholarship was created to honor local high school seniors in the Denver Metro area who truly live out our company motto: Do What Is Expected, Then Do More. We believe in rewarding students who go above and beyond - whether in academics, leadership, community service, or personal growth. As a locally owned company committed to integrity and excellence in every roofing, siding, and window project, we’re proud to invest in the next generation of leaders who share those same values. This scholarship reflects our dedication to both our craft and our community. The scholarship is divided between four chosen applicants who best exemplify our motto: Do What Is Expected, Then Do More.

Sachs Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship grants are typically awarded in amounts of $10,000 to $12,500 per year (disbursed evenly each term) and are renewable for up to four years, resulting in a total potential award of up to $40,000 to $50,000. Scholarships can be applied to any accredited institution where the student is enrolled full-time.

All students who fit the criteria below are encouraged to apply. Applications are available each year from January 1-March 15.

CRITERIA:

In order to apply for a Sachs Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship, applicants must fit the following, qualifying criteria:

• A Black high school student in their senior year
• A full-time Colorado resident for a minimum of three years. Residence due to military orders to Colorado may be accepted on a case-by-case basis

INSTRUCTIONS:

Applications will be available online through the link below between January 1st and March 15th of each year. As part of your application, you will be asked to submit the following, required materials:

• Your full high school transcript
• Two letters of recommendation from persons not related to you
• A one-page personal statement and an additional essay response (350-500 words)
• Your Student Aid Report (SAR). You can obtain your SAR by filling out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if you haven’t already done so, at www.fafsa.gov
• Information from your household’s latest tax return
• An additional educational, artistic, or professional file personal to you (optional)

Please note: Completed applications, with all materials, must be received by the Sachs Foundation by March 15th of the year you are applying. Letters of Recommendation must be received by March 31st. Applications submitted past the deadline will not be considered. Any incomplete or incorrect statement will directly impact any consideration of your scholarship application.

Students who are identified as finalists for a scholarship will be notified in late April. Finalists will be required to attend a program in Colorado Springs in June. Final approval of an award will be made at that time.

A program of the Rocky Mountain Court System Inc., this foundation was created to award scholarships to ALL Colorado residents, enabling them to continue their college education. The money is donated directly to the schools with the stipulation that the scholarship award is to be used for tuition or to purchase textbooks. The eligibility criteria are that the applicant must reside in Colorado and attend an accredited higher learning institution. Application due January 14. See website for more details.

The Visionary Scholarship is a bi-annual award. There are five (5) awards given with each bi-annual deadline - with a total of ten (10) college scholarships awarded for each school year. Awards range from $1,000 to $2,500 each. Click here for more award details on award availability for your students.
Next bi-annual award deadline: December 1, 2025
Eligible grades: 2026, 2027, 2028, & 2029
ACF Visionary Scholarship complete details.
The application is free and the student does NOT need to demonstrate financial need in order to qualify.

Juniors will have the opportunity to take a Preliminary SAT (PSAT)/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test October 8 at HRHS. This is an excellent practice test for the SAT given in the Spring. This student guide provides a helpful overview of what to expect.

Digital SAT practice is free and available to all students through the Bluebook™ testing app. Students can take a full-length digital practice test, view their results, and get linked to additional instructional materials, resources, and lessons on Official Digital SAT Prep on Khan Academy®.

• Register for the National SAT
• Register by November 21 for December 6 test
• Register for the National ACT
• Register by November 7 for December 13 test
• Register by January 9 for February 14 test

SAT Prep Course at DU (or live online). There will be a high-quality SAT prep course this fall hosted at the University of Denver, taught by a Harvard grad. There is also a live online version of the course. You will choose between the in-person and virtual courses. Campus Prep has provided these popular courses at the University of Denver for the past 7 years and has been the official SAT provider for the Boulder Valley School District.

• Both courses are open to Juniors and Seniors.
• 27-hour comprehensive course, including 3 proctored practice exams
• Starts in October and runs for 7 weeks
• Taught live by a 99th percentile expert instructor
• Costs $195
• Students who complete the course often increase their score by over 200 points.
• The courses fill up fast. Apply at https://www.campusprep.org/sat (it takes 60 seconds to apply)
• Visit https://www.campusprep.org/sat to see the schedules and to apply for the course.

Questions? Email admin@campusprep.org or call (877) 805-2521.

This is available for free in the Library every Access period, after school Mon-Thurs from 2:45-3:30, before school on silver days from 7:15-8:10!

Students sign up online for tutoring using this google form: Sign up for NHS Tutoring

What kind of help can you get from a tutoring session?

• One-on-One tutoring session -- specific skill or assignment

• A study buddy -- study and review for a test

• A homework helper -- while you work on your homework

• A writing coach -- organize your thoughts/edit your written work

• A reading buddy -- help you with your assigned reading

General Reminder: All seniors need to complete and turn in 20 hours of community service. Your completed hours are posted on your unofficial transcript. Need ideas?

We are continuing to prepare for the Shredders Ski Team season and are looking for passionate, enthusiastic volunteers to support individuals with Down Syndrome during their full-day ski lessons as part of the Shredders Ski Team with the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD) at Winter Park Resort!

NSCD Shredders Ski Team Season Details:

• Participants: Individuals with Down Syndrome, ages 5+

• Dates: Saturdays, February 21, 28, March 7, and 14, 2026

• Location: National Sports Center for the Disabled, Winter Park Resort

• Volunteer positions start at age 16 and up

Interested in becoming a volunteer? The NSCD Winter Volunteer Application is Open!

https://nscd.org/winter-volunteer/

We are now in our eighth year of organizing the Weekend of Action—a remarkable community volunteer event taking place November 6-9. During this weekend, hundreds of volunteers come together to participate in hands-on projects that support individuals in need throughout the Denver metro area. This is an incredible opportunity for groups such as yours to volunteer together! Every year we have groups of kids from Student Councils to Eagle Scouts to National Honor Society volunteer as a team. The feedback we have received has been remarkable from the youth and from the adults who organize the teams.

One of the best parts of this event is that volunteers of all ages can get involved in meaningful projects that truly make a difference for thousands in our community. Our goal for the Weekend of Action is to make volunteering easy, engaging, and fun, while also raising awareness about local community needs. This is a wonderful opportunity for youth to work together on a project that fosters teamwork, compassion, and community spirit.

Opportunities to volunteer with Operation Christmas Child from Class 101 at the Processing Center in Englewood. These spots are open to any student. Students can earn from 4 hours to 25 community service hours depending on how many shifts they choose to work. Details will be emailed after you sign up.

Need community service hours? Volunteer to be a Teen Reading Buddy at Douglas County Libraries. Click here for more information. Check out more volunteer opportunities at DCL here.

The Douglas County Healthy Youth Coalition (DCHYC) is currently accepting applications for our Youth Leadership Board for the 2025–2026 school year.

The Youth Leadership Board brings together high school students from across the county to:

• Strengthen leadership skills through real-world projects

• Work alongside community leaders, schools, and parents to improve youth health and well-being

• Lead peer-driven initiatives focused on prevention, connection, and advocacy.

• RescueMinds Medical Learning- student-led nonprofit organization committed to increasing access to CPR and Narcan training in high school and college students. Apply to volunteer.

• Denver Museum of Nature & Science Guest Engagement Volunteer program. Students will have the opportunity to volunteer at the information desk, ticket scanning and greeting, while creating a friendlier and more convenient Museum space by serving as gallery guides and performing wayfinding assignments during special events and programs.

• The Aspen Effect offers leadership and volunteer services hours through Ranch Hand Jobs. Visit www.theaspeneffect.org to sign up (limited spaces).

Army:

• November 5

Marines:

• November 12

Navy:

• November 18

To honor the dedication and bravery of former HRHS students serving in the military, we have a recognition wall for service members at HRHS. If you know of a former student enlisted with the military, I would like to include them in our display case. It is an opportunity for our school community to express gratitude and support for these individuals. Please email me the contact info and I can reach out to them to include their name, branch of the military and a photo/write up if available.

• Waterworks Aquatics Swim Schools is hiring for Swim Instructor positions starting at an average of $20.00 - $28.50. They are a local swim school, looking to train and hire PART-TIME (YEAR-ROUND) SWIM INSTRUCTORS! They are looking for energetic people that are open to learning and have the ability to make learning fun. If you know of anyone that has a strong passion for working with children and enjoys being in the water, then this is the job for them! Students can apply at the link: https://waterworks-aquatics.careerplug.com/jobs/1027610/apps/new
• Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) is currently hiring for year-round staff. Check out HRCAonline.org/Jobs for more details.

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