KHS School Counseling

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The School Counseling Department will host an FSA ID Creation Workshop for seniors on Monday, November 2 during Intervention I. During this event, school counselors will assist students with creating their FSA IDs, which is the first step in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

This support is especially important because Connecticut's new graduation requirements require students to complete the FAFSA, an approved alternative application, or a waiver. In addition, FAFSA completion may be required for students to access certain financial aid opportunities, including Connecticut State Community College's free tuition program.

What Students Should Bring

Please remind your student to bring:

• Their Chromebook

• Their Social Security Number

• A personal email address (not their school email account)

Prize Giveaway

To encourage participation, students who create their FSA ID during the workshop and show a counselor their confirmation, or students who have already created an FSA ID and provide proof during the event, will be entered into a prize drawing funded through a college access grant.

FAFSA Parent Workshop

We also invite families to attend our FAFSA Parent Workshop on Wednesday, November 4, where representatives from CT State's Financial Aid Office will provide guidance and answer questions about the financial aid process.

Please register using the QR code on the flyer below. The registration form contains multiple questions, so please be sure to complete all sections and click "Submit" at the end. Registrations are not received unless the final submission step is completed.

Sincerely,
The School Counseling Department

This month's mental health spotlight, presented by Ms. Espinosa and Mrs. Albert, KHS Counselors

Gratitude & Connection: The school year is in full swing, and it can be easy to focus on everything that isn't going well. Taking a few moments to notice what is going well can help create perspective. Gratitude doesn't mean ignoring difficult feelings or pretending everything is perfect. It simply gives us an opportunity to recognize positive people, experiences, and small moments alongside the challenges.

Connection is a huge part of mental wellness and spending time with people who make you feel supported and understood can help manage stress and feel less alone.

For Students: Think of one person who has made a positive difference for you so far this year. Send them a text, thank them in person, or simply let them know you appreciate them.

Try This at Home: During dinner or another shared moment, have everyone name one positive moment from the day. It can be something big, or something as simple as a good song, a funny conversation, or a favorite snack.

~Mrs. Albert & Ms. Espinoza