PDS Counseling Newsletter

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Showing up for school has a huge impact on a student’s academic success. Even as children grow older and more independent, families play a key role in making sure students get to school every day and understand why attendance is so important for success in school and on the job.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Students should miss no more than 9 days of school each year to stay engaged, successful and on track to graduation.
• Frequent absences can be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, struggling with school work, dealing with a bully or facing some other difficulty.
• By 6th grade, absenteeism is one of three signs that a student may drop out of high school.
• By 9th grade, attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th grade test scores.
• Missing 10%, or 2 days a month, over the course of the school year, can affect a student’s academic success.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Make school attendance a priority

• Talk about the importance of showing up to school every day.
• Help your children maintain daily routines, such as finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep.
• Try not to schedule dental and non-urgent related medical appointments during the school day.
• Keep your student healthy. If you are concerned about about a contagious illness, call your school or health care provider.
• If your children must stay home because they are sick, make sure they have asked teachers for resources and materials to make up for the missed learning time in the classroom.

Help your teen stay engaged

• Find out if your children feel engaged by their classes, and feel safe from bullies and other threats.
• Make sure your teens are not missing class because of challenges with behavioral issues or school discipline policies. If any of these are problems, contact the school and work with them to find a solution.
• Monitor you teen’s academic progress and seek help from teachers or tutors when necessary. Make sure teachers know how to contact you.
• Stay on top of your child’s social contacts. Peer pressure can lead to skipping school, while students without many friends can feel isolated.
• Encourage your child to join meaningful after-school activities, including sports and clubs.
• Support your students if you notice signs of anxiety, and if needed, seek advice from your school or health provider

• Know the school’s attendance policy – incentives and penalties.
• Check on your child’s attendance to be sure absences are not adding up.
• Seek help from school staff, other parents, or community agencies if you need support.

Source: Attendance Works

🟦 9th Grade – Set Your Foundation

• You’ve had a month to adjust, now is the time to build good habits that stick.

• Keep track of upcoming assignments and test dates using a planner or app.

• Talk to your teachers and counselor if anything feels overwhelming. We’re here to help!

• Stay involved or try out a new club or sport this month.

🟨 10th Grade –Think Big Picture

• How’s your GPA looking so far? A strong sophomore year sets you up for success.

• Start exploring careers and postsecondary options.

• Keep an eye out for upcoming PSAT information.

• Reflect on what’s working for you in terms of study habits and time management.

🟩 11th Grade – Plan Ahead

• Use this semester to build strong teacher relationships (you’ll need recommendations next year).

• Keep a resume or brag sheet of everything you’re doing this year.

• Consider a timeline for ACT/SAT prep if needed.

🟥 12th Grade –Time to Take Action

• Narrow down your college list and start working on applications and essays.

• Ask for letters of recommendation now if you haven’t already.

• Double-check that you're on track for graduation with your counselor.

• Start exploring scholarships and get ready for FAFSA opening in October.

The Counseling Office operates by appointment only.

Students can request an appointment with their counselor by clicking here or by scanning the QR code posted in the Counseling Office. After submitting a request, students will receive a pass when their counselor is available to meet. In some cases, if the question can be more easily addressed by email, the counselor may respond that way instead.

If a student is experiencing a mental health emergency, they should come directly to the Counseling Office, no appointment needed.

Parents and guardians may request an appointment by phone or email. We're happy to assist you in scheduling a time to meet with us!

We have a new website with helpful information about our department and request counseling appointments, find relevant information for each grade level, college and career and dual enrollment!

Need help with college apps, recommendation letters, or essays? Please sign up for the session titled SchooLinks Training on Wednesday, Sept 3rd during intervention block in LH100

PLEASE BRING YOUR CHOME BOOKS, and if you have not created a Common App account, please do so before your assigned intervention.

Thinking about the military… or just curious about your future career?

10th-12th grade students — the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) isn’t just for students interested in the military. It’s also a career interest test that can show you what jobs and fields best match your skills and strengths.

📅 When: Thursday, September 25
⏰ Time: 7:15 – 10:45 AM
📍 Where: LH 100

Sign up and see what paths might be a great fit for you — whether that’s in the military or in another career! Ms Patel

Are you interested in learning more about MIT? If so, make sure you reserve your spot on Monday, Sept 8th in room 126 (across from LH 100) at the beginning of 3rd block.

The Atlanta Electrical Contractors Association (AECA) is coming to YOU this Wednesday, September 17th during ALL lunch periods to reveal an incredible opportunity that could change your life!

🔥 Why Electrical Apprenticeships Are AMAZING:

• GET PAID while you learn – No student loans, just paychecks!
• Skip the traditional college route and jump straight into hands-on, real-world experience
• Turn school struggles into SUCCESS with practical, engaging work that matters
• Job security like no other – the world will ALWAYS need skilled electricians
• Earn serious money – electricians can make $50,000-$100,000+ per year!
• 
  

This could be YOUR moment! Whether you're tired of sitting in classrooms, love working with your hands, or want to start earning money NOW while building an incredible career – this is the opportunity you've been waiting for.

Don't miss out! Stop by during ANY lunch period on Wednesday, September 17th. Your future self will thank you for taking this one small step that could lead to a lifetime of success, stability, and satisfaction.

📅 Thursday, September 18
🕡 6:30–7:30 PM
📍 Theater

Attention 12th-grade families! Join us for Senior Parent Night, where counselors will share essential information to help students and parents prepare for life after high school. Topics will include:

• Graduation requirements

• Post-secondary options

• SAT/ACT details

• College application process

• Scholarships

• 
  

This is a valuable opportunity to get your questions answered and ensure you and your student feel confident about the year ahead.

September 22: Mississippi State University & Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD)

September 23: University of Florida

September 24: Agnes Scott College

Use the form below to refer yourself or someone you know to CARE team. A counselor will get in touch with you! 😊

CARE Team is always accepting donations of items in our wishlist! Your generosity is appreciated.

Sofia Cevallos - 9th and 10th grade, Last Names A-K (sofia.cevallos@gcpsk12.org)

Tony Rhone - 9th and 10th grade, Last Names L-Z (tony.rhone@gcpsk12.org)

Donyale Turner - 11th and 12th grade, Last Names A-K (donyale.turner@gcpsk12.org)

Justin Francisco- 11th and 12th grade, Last Names L-Z (justin.francisco@gcpsk12.org)

Leslie Patel - College & Career Counselor, Dual Enrollment Coordinator (leslie.patel@gcpsk12.org)

Ashley Morris - Special Projects (ashley.morris@gcpsk12.org)

Devin Jones - Administrator (devin.jones@gcpsk12.org)

The College and Career Center is here to help Paul Duke STEM High School students plan for their future after graduation. We are here to help students reach their goals, develop a plan to achieve them, and provide them with the most up-to-date information that ensures each student is successful with their post-secondary options. This includes four-year college, community college, military enlistment, employment, and/or vocational training.

Use the form below to request a Letter of Recommendation from your counselor!

Are you a high school senior or undergraduate who is looking to offset the cost of your business, tech, marketing or communications degree? Apply for the 10X $4,000 digital marketing scholarship to be awarded this Fall.

Scholarship Details

• One-time $4,000 scholarship
• Awarded for the Fall academic term
• Selection made by a panel of three judges

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a 12th grader or college undergraduate student
• Must be majoring or planning to major in a field related to digital marketing (e.g., marketing, business, communications, tech)
• Must be enrolled in at least 10 credit hours

Application Process

1. Complete the online application form.
2. Write an essay of at least 500 words regarding your life story, your intended field of study, career and how you specifically will make an impact on the world.
3. Submit your application and essay by the deadline.
4. The winner will be announced by mid-October.

This scholarship is a great opportunity for any student looking to go into any marketing or related fields. $4,000 could go a long way in helping you pay for your next semester of college!

Deadline: September 10

The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding 12th graders from low-income households. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to exceptional student leaders, with the intent of helping them realize their maximum potential.

Award

Scholars will receive funding for the full cost of attendance* that is not already covered by other financial aid and the Student Aid Index, as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), or the methodology used by a Scholar’s college or university.

*Cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, books, housing and food, and may include additional personal costs.

Basic Eligibility

• To apply, students must be:

  • A high school senior
  • Pell-eligible
  • A US citizen or permanent resident
  • In good academic standing with a minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)

  
  

  Additionally, a student must plan to enroll full-time, in a four-year degree program, at a US accredited, not-for-profit, private or public college or university.

Ideal Candidate

An ideal candidate will have:

• An outstanding academic record in high school (in the top 10% of his/her graduating class)
• Demonstrated leadership ability (e.g., as shown through participation in community service, extracurricular, or other activities)
• Exceptional personal success skills (e.g., emotional maturity, motivation, perseverance, etc.)

Deadline: September 15

Girl Up is a youth-centered leadership initiative focusing on equity for girls and women in spaces where they are unheard or underrepresented. We believe when girls and women are in positions of influence, they work to create a more just and equitable space for everyone.

Scholarship Details

• $2,500 per academic year
• Funds paid directly to the recipient’s higher education institution
• Open to young women passionate about gender equality and STEM
• Recipients will work with Girl Up to implement a social impact project
• Scholarships are awarded twice per year

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a college, university, or technical school by the fall semester
• Must be between the ages of 13 and 24 years old
• University/college must be able to accept funds via check or ACH transfer in US dollars
• Applicants must either:
• Be studying or pursuing a STEM-related field; OR
• Be contributing to STEM-related events or projects in their community

Application Process

1. Complete the online application form
2. Submit proof of enrollment and academic transcript
3. Provide a personal statement outlining your contributions to STEM and gender equality
4. If awarded the scholarship, work with Girl Up to develop a social impact project

Girl Up aims to support its network of youth leaders around the world through financial awards, honorariums, and scholarships because we know that when you educate a girl, you educate a nation.

Deadline: September 18

QuestBridge's National College Match is a combination college-scholarship application for academically distinguished high school seniors with demonstrated financial need. The maximum award is a 4-year scholarship to cover the entire cost of attending college.

Scholarship Details

• You can apply to over 55 colleges for free with QuestBridge's National College Match application.
• The application encourages students to explain their financial and academic circumstances.
• Recipients are connected to a network of QuestBridge alumni for further support.
• Application opens in late summer.

Eligibility Criteria

• U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• 12th grade student
• Enrolled in challenging courses and earning mostly A's
• Writing skill and academic drive to succeed
• Low-income household

Application Process

1. Create an applicant profile on QuestBridge's website
2. Fill out the application when it opens
3. Upload all required documents, including proof of financial need and supplemental essays
4. Submit the application in advance of the deadline

QuestBridge was founded in 1994. Over 17,000 QuestBridge finalists have matched with partner colleges, an honor that permits attendance with a full-tuition scholarship for all four years of college.

Deadline: September 30

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program scholarship is an achievement-based scholarship awarded to students in their final year of high school. It recognizes students for their leadership, service, and commitment to making a lasting impact in their schools and communities.

Scholarship Details

• 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year
• Each Coca-Cola Scholar receives a $20,000 scholarship
• Over $87 million awarded to more than 7,000 Scholars since the program’s inception

Eligibility Criteria

• Current high school senior
• Demonstrated leadership and service in school and/or community
• Strong commitment to creating positive change in society

Application Process

1. Complete the online application form on the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation website
2. Submit academic transcripts and letters of recommendation
3. Finalists are invited to participate in an interview

To date, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has provided over 7,000 Coca-Cola Scholars with more than $87 million in educational support. 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year to receive this $20,000 scholarship.

Deadline: September 30

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program is an undergraduate scholarship program available to high-achieving 12th graders with financial need who seek to attend and graduate from the nation's top four-year colleges and universities.

Deadline: November 12

A unique educational experience for outstanding 11th and 12th graders interested in pursuing careers in public service.

Application Dates: August 11 – September 30

Recognizes and honors some of our nation's most distinguished graduating 12th graders.

Application Dates: September 1 – November 1

Identifies and honors Georgia 12th graders who have achieved excellence in school and community life.

Application Dates: January 1 – March 1

The Georgia Scholar Program Brochure will be available in late Fall.

When students miss school frequently, it becomes harder to keep up with lessons, build strong peer relationships, and feel a sense of routine and stability. Over time, this can lead to increased stress, anxiety, or feelings of being overwhelmed or disconnected. On the flip side, chronic stress and mental health struggles can make it harder to get to school consistently, creating a cycle that’s tough to break.

👨‍👩‍👧 For Parents:

• If your child is struggling with attendance, gently ask why. Is it anxiety? Sleep issues? Feeling behind? Peer conflict?

• Let them know it’s okay to ask for help, and that their school counselor or a trusted adult is a safe person to talk to.

• Work with your student to build a consistent bedtime and morning routine that sets them up for success.

• Avoid letting students miss school for reasons that could be addressed with support from staff (e.g., test anxiety or classroom concerns).

🎒 For Students:

• Missing a few days here and there adds up. Try your best to be present unless you're truly sick or have an excused reason.

• Struggling to stay motivated? You're not alone. Let your counselor or a trusted adult know so they can help.

• Being at school helps you stay connected with academics, friends, clubs, and people who care about you.

🛠 Resources to Support You:

• Attendance Works – Tips for families on how to build positive attendance habits.

• Seize the Awkward – A resource for starting conversations about mental health.

This section of the newsletter will always be here for your reference! If you have any questions about high school graduation requirements, please feel free to reach out to us.