Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Remembering Marcia Cook
The halls of Perry High School are a sea of pink t-shirts in rememberance of Marcia Cook. Mrs. Cook passed away earlier this year of cancer. A staff team had been established last year to walk in the annual Komen Northeast Ohio Race for the Cure. The "Tough Cookies" designed a shirt to honor Mrs. Cook; many staf members purchased the shirts, and many students expressed an interest in also owning a shirt. Today we wear our shirts to remember the strength and courage that Mrs. Cook demonstrated, and her dedication to her family, friends and our students.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Auburn Career Center Visit
Attention Sophomores:
Auburn Career Center will be visiting on Friday, November 2, 2007. All sophomores will attend a presentation given by an Auburn representative. This presentation will cover the admission process, the available programs, and an upcoming visit day at Auburn Career Center.
You received an informational mailing at home that includes your application. If you are interested in attending Auburn, you must complete this application. If you did not receive an application, please see your counselor.
Auburn Career Center will be visiting on Friday, November 2, 2007. All sophomores will attend a presentation given by an Auburn representative. This presentation will cover the admission process, the available programs, and an upcoming visit day at Auburn Career Center.
You received an informational mailing at home that includes your application. If you are interested in attending Auburn, you must complete this application. If you did not receive an application, please see your counselor.
Virtual College Fair
CollegeWeek Live is hosting a Virtual College Fair on Nov. 13-14 from 3PM-11PM. 100+ colleges have signed on to participate. Check it out!
http://collegeweeklive.com/index.html
http://collegeweeklive.com/index.html
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Teens: Meth is accessible, has benefits (AP)
Kids believe drug is ‘easy’ to get, makes them feel ‘very happy,’ survey finds
The Associated Press
Updated: 6:06 p.m. ET Sept 18, 2007
WASHINGTON - Nearly a quarter of teens say it would be "very easy" or "somewhat easy" to gain access to methamphetamine, a survey released Tuesday shows.
One in three teens also believes there is only a "slight risk" or "no risk" in trying meth once or twice, according to the study by The Meth Project, a nonprofit anti-drug group that produces gritty ads to show the perils of meth abuse.
And about one in four teens said there are benefits to using meth. Twenty-four percent of teens agreed with the statement that meth "makes you feel euphoric or very happy," while 22 percent said meth "helps you lose weight" and 22 percent said it "helps you deal with boredom."
Lawmakers and government officials said the survey highlights the need for an aggressive public education campaign to inform kids about the dangers of the highly addictive stimulant.
"For kids, meth is death," said Dr. Julie Gerberding, head of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "And if we really want to do something about improving the survival of our adolescents and help them become healthy adults, we've got to tackle this problem head on."
Gerberding praised The Meth Project's two-year anti-meth ad campaign in Montana, which is credited for helping reduce meth use in the state by 45 percent since 2005. The ads use graphic images to portray the drug's ravages on young people.
By contrast, meth use among teens nationally remained unchanged over the same period, according to the annual drug use survey released last month by the Health and Human Services Department.
Getting to kids at an early stage is crucial, Gerberding said. Of the teens who have tried meth, 77 percent reported they used the drug when they were 15 or younger, the survey showed.
On the positive side, a majority of teens — 76 percent — voiced "strong" disapproval with trying meth once or twice, about the same level as those who disapproved of trying cocaine or heroin.
"What this survey shows us is that we have more work to do," said White House drug czar John Walters said. "These attitudes are troubling. We still have too many kids who say they can get their hands on this poison."
The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy began a meth prevention ad campaign earlier this month. The print and broadcast ads — including four produced by The Meth Project — will appear in eight states where meth use remains high: Alaska, California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Oregon and Washington.
Walters said prevention efforts appear to be having an impact. He pointed to a report last December from the National Institute on Drug Abuse that showed meth use among teens declined 50 percent from 2001 to 2005.
The survey for The Meth Project was conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Media and questioned 2,602 junior and senior high school students ages 12-17 at 43 schools across the country.
© 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20842489/
Teen smokers 5 times more prone to drink (Reuters)
New report spotlights how nicotine affects adolescent brains
Reuters
Updated: 3:55 p.m. ET Oct 23, 2007
WASHINGTON - Teenagers who smoke are five times more likely to drink and 13 times more likely to use marijuana than those who are not smokers, according to a report issued on Tuesday.
The report by Columbia University's National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse presented further evidence linking youth smoking to other substance abuse and spotlighted research on how nicotine affects the adolescent brain.
"Teenage smoking can signal the fire of alcohol and drug abuse or mental illness like depression and anxiety," Joseph Califano, who heads the center and is a former U.S. health secretary, said in a telephone interview.
The report analyzed surveys conducted by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and other data on youth smokers. Most smokers begin smoking before age 18.
Smokers ages 12 to 17 are more likely drink alcohol than nonsmokers — 59 percent compared to 11 percent, the report found. Those who become regular smokers by age 12 are more than three times more likely to report binge drinking than those who never smoked — 31 percent compared to 9 percent.
Binge drinking was defined as having five drinks or more in a row.
Asked whether smoking is causing these other behaviors or is just another risky behavior occurring alongside the others, Califano said, "There's no question that early teenage smoking is linked to these other things. Now whether it's causing it or not, I think the jury is probably still out on that."
Smokers ages 12 to 17 are more apt to meet the diagnostic definition for drug abuse or dependence in the previous year — 26 percent compared to 2 percent, the researchers said.
The report noted that marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug among teenagers, with government data from 2005 showing 7 percent of those ages 12 to 17 used marijuana.
Of these, current cigarette smokers are 13 times more likely to use marijuana than those who do not smoke.
The younger a child is when he or she starts smoking, the greater the risk, the Columbia team said.
Children who start smoking by age 12 are more than three times more likely to binge on alcohol, nearly 15 times more likely to smoke marijuana and almost seven times more likely to use other drugs such as heroin and cocaine.
Teenagers who smoke also have a higher risk of depression and anxiety disorders, the study found.
The report cited scientific studies showing the nicotine in tobacco products can produce structural and chemical changes in the developing brain that make young people vulnerable to alcohol and other drug addiction and mental illness.
This includes effects on the brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin and changes to brain receptors associated with an increased desire for other addictive drugs.
(c) Reuters 2007. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by caching, framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters and the Reuters sphere logo are registered trademarks and trademarks of the Reuters group of companies around the world.
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21440637/
Reuters
Updated: 3:55 p.m. ET Oct 23, 2007
WASHINGTON - Teenagers who smoke are five times more likely to drink and 13 times more likely to use marijuana than those who are not smokers, according to a report issued on Tuesday.
The report by Columbia University's National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse presented further evidence linking youth smoking to other substance abuse and spotlighted research on how nicotine affects the adolescent brain.
"Teenage smoking can signal the fire of alcohol and drug abuse or mental illness like depression and anxiety," Joseph Califano, who heads the center and is a former U.S. health secretary, said in a telephone interview.
The report analyzed surveys conducted by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and other data on youth smokers. Most smokers begin smoking before age 18.
Smokers ages 12 to 17 are more likely drink alcohol than nonsmokers — 59 percent compared to 11 percent, the report found. Those who become regular smokers by age 12 are more than three times more likely to report binge drinking than those who never smoked — 31 percent compared to 9 percent.
Binge drinking was defined as having five drinks or more in a row.
Asked whether smoking is causing these other behaviors or is just another risky behavior occurring alongside the others, Califano said, "There's no question that early teenage smoking is linked to these other things. Now whether it's causing it or not, I think the jury is probably still out on that."
Smokers ages 12 to 17 are more apt to meet the diagnostic definition for drug abuse or dependence in the previous year — 26 percent compared to 2 percent, the researchers said.
The report noted that marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug among teenagers, with government data from 2005 showing 7 percent of those ages 12 to 17 used marijuana.
Of these, current cigarette smokers are 13 times more likely to use marijuana than those who do not smoke.
The younger a child is when he or she starts smoking, the greater the risk, the Columbia team said.
Children who start smoking by age 12 are more than three times more likely to binge on alcohol, nearly 15 times more likely to smoke marijuana and almost seven times more likely to use other drugs such as heroin and cocaine.
Teenagers who smoke also have a higher risk of depression and anxiety disorders, the study found.
The report cited scientific studies showing the nicotine in tobacco products can produce structural and chemical changes in the developing brain that make young people vulnerable to alcohol and other drug addiction and mental illness.
This includes effects on the brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin and changes to brain receptors associated with an increased desire for other addictive drugs.
(c) Reuters 2007. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by caching, framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters and the Reuters sphere logo are registered trademarks and trademarks of the Reuters group of companies around the world.
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21440637/
Monday, October 22, 2007
Red Ribbon Week
"The purpose of the Red Ribbon Campaign is to present a visible commitment to a safe, healthy and drug-free lifestyle. The campaign is designed to accomplish the following:
- to create awareness concerning the problems related to the use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs
- to support the decision to live a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.
Red Ribbon Week began in 1988 in honor of DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, who was kidnapped and killed in Mexico in February of 1985. Agent Camarena, then 37, had uncovered a multi-billion dollar drug scam in which he suspected officers of the Mexican Army, police forces and government. As he left his office one day, five men appeared at his side and kidnapped him. His body was found one month later in a shallow grave; he had been tortured and beaten.
The first Red Ribbon Week was proclaimed in 1988 by the U.S. Congress in support of Agent Camarena and the cause he gave his life for -- combating drugs. The week is marked by the wearing of a red ribbon to send the message: Live drug-free!
National Red Ribbon Week is the last week of October. SADD chapters are encouraged to celebrate Red Ribbon Week to symbolize their commitment to a healthy, drug-free lifestyle and to create awareness of the problems related to the use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. (http://www.sadd.org/campaign/ribbon.htm)"
Perry High School has set up a display of 6,000 red ribbons on the west side of the building to represent the 6,000 students annually killed in car accidents. Classes will visit the display on Tuesday. Please join our students and staff in conversations regarding safe driving for all of our students.
College costs up again this year (AP)
College costs up again this year
Report: Average increase of 6.6 percent forcing students to borrow more
The Associated Press
Updated: 11:16 a.m. ET Oct 22, 2007
Average tuition and fees at four-year public colleges rose 6.6 percent this year, again outstripping increases in financial aid and pushing students into more borrowing. Community colleges once again did the best job keeping the lid on prices.
In-state students at four-year public schools are paying $6,185 this year, up $381 from last year, according to the nonprofit College Board's annual survey of college costs, released Monday. At four-year private colleges, tuition and fees rose 6.3 percent to $23,712.
The published price is not the real price for many students. Onaverage, accounting for grants and tax breaks, full-time studentsare actually paying $2,577 this year to attend four-year public universities. That's $209 more than last year.
However, even the net price is still rising much faster thanoverall inflation. The net price at public universities is $560higher, in 2007 dollars, than a decade ago. The five years haveseen prices rise 31 percent above and beyond the general inflationrate for other goods and services — the worst record on collegeprices of any five-year period covered by the survey dating back 30years.
Prices at two-year colleges, which educate about half ofAmerican college students, rose 4.2 percent to $2,361. Accounting for aid, their average net cost is only $320 per year.
A companion report released on trends in student aid shows thatover the last decade, increases in grant aid — money students don't have to pay back — have covered only about one-third of the increases in private college tuition and half the increases at public four-year schools.
While borrowing from the government is still far bigger,students are footing more and more of the bill with private loans from banks and student loan companies. Undergraduate private borrowing grew 12 percent to $14.5 billion in 2006-2007. The rate of increase in total private borrowing for education has slowed, but borrowing has increased tenfold over the last decade.
Including room and board for students living on campus, charges for public four-year colleges were $13,589, or 5.9 percent higher than last year. At private four-year schools, total charges rose by the same percentage to $32,307. George Washington University in Washington, D.C. recently attracted attention for becoming the first major university with a published price, including room and board, of more than $50,000.
However, the percentage of college-goers who pay such large sums is fairly small. Fewer than 10 percent even attend colleges with tuition and fees higher than $30,000, according to the CollegeBoard, and many of those students receive financial aid. About 56 percent of students at four-year colleges attend schools listing a price under $10,000, and about one-third attend schools charging under $6,000.
© 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21420361/
Report: Average increase of 6.6 percent forcing students to borrow more
The Associated Press
Updated: 11:16 a.m. ET Oct 22, 2007
Average tuition and fees at four-year public colleges rose 6.6 percent this year, again outstripping increases in financial aid and pushing students into more borrowing. Community colleges once again did the best job keeping the lid on prices.
In-state students at four-year public schools are paying $6,185 this year, up $381 from last year, according to the nonprofit College Board's annual survey of college costs, released Monday. At four-year private colleges, tuition and fees rose 6.3 percent to $23,712.
The published price is not the real price for many students. Onaverage, accounting for grants and tax breaks, full-time studentsare actually paying $2,577 this year to attend four-year public universities. That's $209 more than last year.
However, even the net price is still rising much faster thanoverall inflation. The net price at public universities is $560higher, in 2007 dollars, than a decade ago. The five years haveseen prices rise 31 percent above and beyond the general inflationrate for other goods and services — the worst record on collegeprices of any five-year period covered by the survey dating back 30years.
Prices at two-year colleges, which educate about half ofAmerican college students, rose 4.2 percent to $2,361. Accounting for aid, their average net cost is only $320 per year.
A companion report released on trends in student aid shows thatover the last decade, increases in grant aid — money students don't have to pay back — have covered only about one-third of the increases in private college tuition and half the increases at public four-year schools.
While borrowing from the government is still far bigger,students are footing more and more of the bill with private loans from banks and student loan companies. Undergraduate private borrowing grew 12 percent to $14.5 billion in 2006-2007. The rate of increase in total private borrowing for education has slowed, but borrowing has increased tenfold over the last decade.
Including room and board for students living on campus, charges for public four-year colleges were $13,589, or 5.9 percent higher than last year. At private four-year schools, total charges rose by the same percentage to $32,307. George Washington University in Washington, D.C. recently attracted attention for becoming the first major university with a published price, including room and board, of more than $50,000.
However, the percentage of college-goers who pay such large sums is fairly small. Fewer than 10 percent even attend colleges with tuition and fees higher than $30,000, according to the CollegeBoard, and many of those students receive financial aid. About 56 percent of students at four-year colleges attend schools listing a price under $10,000, and about one-third attend schools charging under $6,000.
© 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21420361/
Friday, October 19, 2007
Early Action - Restrictive
I borrow this from Donnelly Fenn of Future Focus Educational Services in Ashland, Oregon.
Early Action allows students to apply to a college early, have their application reviewed and decsion made early, but not have the binding decision as with Early Decision. Several of the schools that use Early Action (EA) have a restrictive EA program. Here is Mr. Fenn's list:
"Latest news on Restricted Early Action (REA) vs. Single Choice Early Action
Boston College now defines their REA as: "Boston College does not permit students to apply under our Early Action program if they are applying to a binding Early Decision program at another college. Students are free to apply to other Early Action (non-binding) and Regular Decision programs. Yale University states: "If you are an applicant to Yale under the Single Choice Early Action program, you may not apply to any early admissions program that notifies candidates in December, whether or not that program is binding. You may still make applications to any other schools you wish for a regular spring decision, and you have until May 1 to tell us whether you are accepting an offer of admission. “Single Choice” means that you must sign an agreement on your application stating that Yale is the only early admissions program to which you are applying. Stanford University states: "At Stanford we believe early admission should be guided by the principle of first choice; as a result, our Restrictive/Single-Choice Early Action program requires that you file only one early admission application.” Although NACAC has defined REA as interpreted by Boston College (according to the BC counselor I spoke with), both Yale and Stanford interpret it differently. The best advice I can give you is to contact or research online the Early Decision/Action policies of each college or university regarding this most confusing of admission policies. "
Early Action allows students to apply to a college early, have their application reviewed and decsion made early, but not have the binding decision as with Early Decision. Several of the schools that use Early Action (EA) have a restrictive EA program. Here is Mr. Fenn's list:
"Latest news on Restricted Early Action (REA) vs. Single Choice Early Action
Boston College now defines their REA as: "Boston College does not permit students to apply under our Early Action program if they are applying to a binding Early Decision program at another college. Students are free to apply to other Early Action (non-binding) and Regular Decision programs. Yale University states: "If you are an applicant to Yale under the Single Choice Early Action program, you may not apply to any early admissions program that notifies candidates in December, whether or not that program is binding. You may still make applications to any other schools you wish for a regular spring decision, and you have until May 1 to tell us whether you are accepting an offer of admission. “Single Choice” means that you must sign an agreement on your application stating that Yale is the only early admissions program to which you are applying. Stanford University states: "At Stanford we believe early admission should be guided by the principle of first choice; as a result, our Restrictive/Single-Choice Early Action program requires that you file only one early admission application.” Although NACAC has defined REA as interpreted by Boston College (according to the BC counselor I spoke with), both Yale and Stanford interpret it differently. The best advice I can give you is to contact or research online the Early Decision/Action policies of each college or university regarding this most confusing of admission policies. "
Vocabulary
As seniors turn in college applications, I take the time to review essays for basic editing needs. I have seen some terrific essays. However, I have seen some where some vocabulary boosting may be needed. I do NOT suggest breaking out the thesaurus every time you write. Yes, it is a very useful tool, and I do utilize it. People who know you will see a disconnect between your writing and speaking if you rely on a thesaurus. Instead, work to increase your vocabulary.
READ. Reading increases your vocabulary. Read whatever you can - the newspaper, news websites, magazines, editorials, books, flyers, etc. Reading keeps you abreast of what is happening in the world, and you will learn new words without even knowing it.
WRITE. Work on your editing skills. When you re-read your writing, does it sound like you need some variety? Concentrate on using a new word each day in your writing. Start small. Remember that it takes practice to become a good writer, and it takes practice to introduce new words into your vocabulary.
SPEAK. Now that you have learned some new words, use them conversationally. Have a vocabulary partner that has a similar goal. Yes, it's a cheesy idea, but it works. And it can be your new inside joke. Try to keep track of how many times a day you use the new word. It takes 21 times to build a habit.
RESOURCES. Are you looking for resources to increase your vocabulary? There are many websites that offer a word-a-day function.
Wordsmith - You can sign up to have a word emailed to you every day.
Merriam-Webster - The dictionary giant introduces a word every day, uses it in a sentance, and gives a fun fact about the origin of the word.
New York Times - The newspaper introduces words used in their publication, and has an audio feature to assist in pronunciation.
Why should I work to increase my vocabulary?
READING. Just like reading heps build your vocabulary, you will also need to know the words you encounter. As you proceed with your education, you will encounter more words that are not used in daily conversation.
WRITING. A strong vocabulary will help you express yourself through writing. And you will be writing papers, letters, etc., for the rest of your lives!
SPEAKING. Job interviews, college interviews, cocktail parties, boardroom meetings, dates -- you are judged by your verbal communication. There will be times when you will desire the skills to impress your audience. Practice now.
COLLEGE AND JOB APPLICATIONS AND RESUMES. Stand out from the crowd. The competition can be fierce. Give a concrete example of your abilities to admissions counselors and future employers.
READ. Reading increases your vocabulary. Read whatever you can - the newspaper, news websites, magazines, editorials, books, flyers, etc. Reading keeps you abreast of what is happening in the world, and you will learn new words without even knowing it.
WRITE. Work on your editing skills. When you re-read your writing, does it sound like you need some variety? Concentrate on using a new word each day in your writing. Start small. Remember that it takes practice to become a good writer, and it takes practice to introduce new words into your vocabulary.
SPEAK. Now that you have learned some new words, use them conversationally. Have a vocabulary partner that has a similar goal. Yes, it's a cheesy idea, but it works. And it can be your new inside joke. Try to keep track of how many times a day you use the new word. It takes 21 times to build a habit.
RESOURCES. Are you looking for resources to increase your vocabulary? There are many websites that offer a word-a-day function.
Wordsmith - You can sign up to have a word emailed to you every day.
Merriam-Webster - The dictionary giant introduces a word every day, uses it in a sentance, and gives a fun fact about the origin of the word.
New York Times - The newspaper introduces words used in their publication, and has an audio feature to assist in pronunciation.
Why should I work to increase my vocabulary?
READING. Just like reading heps build your vocabulary, you will also need to know the words you encounter. As you proceed with your education, you will encounter more words that are not used in daily conversation.
WRITING. A strong vocabulary will help you express yourself through writing. And you will be writing papers, letters, etc., for the rest of your lives!
SPEAKING. Job interviews, college interviews, cocktail parties, boardroom meetings, dates -- you are judged by your verbal communication. There will be times when you will desire the skills to impress your audience. Practice now.
COLLEGE AND JOB APPLICATIONS AND RESUMES. Stand out from the crowd. The competition can be fierce. Give a concrete example of your abilities to admissions counselors and future employers.
OGT reminder
Reminder -- the OGT will be given to juniors and seniors who need to pass sections next week. If you need the test, you have already received a reminder notice. If you have any questions, please let your counselor know.
Some OGT Tips:
1. SLEEP!! Get a good night's sleep before the test.
2. Eat breakfast before the exam. You will need a lot of energy, as the test is long.
3. Pace yourself. You have 2 1/2 hours to complete each portion of the test. Take time to review your answers.
4. Take the test seriously - it is a requirement for graduation in Ohio.
5. Remember your intervention tips.
Good luck to all!
Some OGT Tips:
1. SLEEP!! Get a good night's sleep before the test.
2. Eat breakfast before the exam. You will need a lot of energy, as the test is long.
3. Pace yourself. You have 2 1/2 hours to complete each portion of the test. Take time to review your answers.
4. Take the test seriously - it is a requirement for graduation in Ohio.
5. Remember your intervention tips.
Good luck to all!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Did You Know?
This is a wonderful video on TeacherTube about technology, education, and the global economy. It motivated me... I hope it motivates you.
Test Anxiety
Many students approach us regarding test taking skills and test anxiety. There are quite a few resources on the web that can help you prepare for standardized exams, as well as exams in your classes.
What is test anxiety?
"Test anxiety is actually a type of performance anxiety - a feeling someone might have in a situation where performance really counts or when the pressure's on to do well. (kidshealth.org)"
What Causes It?
"All anxiety is a reaction to anticipating something stressful. Like other anxiety reactions, test anxiety affects the body and the mind. When you're under stress, your body releases the hormone adrenaline, which prepares it for danger (you may hear this referred to as the "fight or flight" reaction). That's what causes the physical symptoms, such as sweating, a pounding heart, and rapid breathing. These sensations might be mild or intense. (kidshealth.org)"
Remember, some anxiety isn't always a bad thing. We need to help you manage your anxiety when it hinders your performance.
Here are some basic tips to help manage or relieve your anxiety:
1. Be prepared. Do not cram the night before.
2. Develop study habits early. Do not wait until your senior year or until college (like I did) to learn how to study. Ask for help now!
3. Get a good night's sleep before the exam. Eat breakfast that morning.
4. Budget your time -- when you study and while you are taking the test.
5. Think positive thoughts. You CAN do this. Really.
6. If you lose focus during the test, stretch. While sitting in your seat, close your eyes, stretch your arms to the ceiling, and concentrate on breathing slowly.
Here are some suggested sites:
Study Guides and Strategies
University of Illinois Counseling Center
University of Buffalo Student Affairs
Teen's Health - Test Anxiety
And don't think test anxiety is limited to high school or college students...
Test Anxiety - PRAXIS
If you would like more information, please see your counselor. We can help you manage your anxiety.
What is test anxiety?
"Test anxiety is actually a type of performance anxiety - a feeling someone might have in a situation where performance really counts or when the pressure's on to do well. (kidshealth.org)"
What Causes It?
"All anxiety is a reaction to anticipating something stressful. Like other anxiety reactions, test anxiety affects the body and the mind. When you're under stress, your body releases the hormone adrenaline, which prepares it for danger (you may hear this referred to as the "fight or flight" reaction). That's what causes the physical symptoms, such as sweating, a pounding heart, and rapid breathing. These sensations might be mild or intense. (kidshealth.org)"
Remember, some anxiety isn't always a bad thing. We need to help you manage your anxiety when it hinders your performance.
Here are some basic tips to help manage or relieve your anxiety:
1. Be prepared. Do not cram the night before.
2. Develop study habits early. Do not wait until your senior year or until college (like I did) to learn how to study. Ask for help now!
3. Get a good night's sleep before the exam. Eat breakfast that morning.
4. Budget your time -- when you study and while you are taking the test.
5. Think positive thoughts. You CAN do this. Really.
6. If you lose focus during the test, stretch. While sitting in your seat, close your eyes, stretch your arms to the ceiling, and concentrate on breathing slowly.
Here are some suggested sites:
Study Guides and Strategies
University of Illinois Counseling Center
University of Buffalo Student Affairs
Teen's Health - Test Anxiety
And don't think test anxiety is limited to high school or college students...
Test Anxiety - PRAXIS
If you would like more information, please see your counselor. We can help you manage your anxiety.
Report Cards
Report Cards were distributed to all students with 6th block classes yesterday. If you do not have a 6th block class, please come to the Guidance office to pick up your report card.
Parents - Yes, your child received their report card. Also, if they had an I (Incomplete), F, or under 2.0 GPA they are ineligible and received an ineligibility notice.
If your child does not have this information to give to you. Please call the Guidance office and we can send you a copy.
Parents - Yes, your child received their report card. Also, if they had an I (Incomplete), F, or under 2.0 GPA they are ineligible and received an ineligibility notice.
If your child does not have this information to give to you. Please call the Guidance office and we can send you a copy.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Homecoming
Have a safe and fun Homecoming weekend!
Friday
5:30 -- Meet for parade
6:00 -- Parade begins
7:00 -- Game
Saturday
7:30 - 11:00 -- Dance
Friday
5:30 -- Meet for parade
6:00 -- Parade begins
7:00 -- Game
Saturday
7:30 - 11:00 -- Dance
SAT Tips
Be well-rested and ready to go. Get a good night’s sleep before the test.
Eat Breakfast. You will be at the test center for several hours and are likely to get hungry.
Don’t forget your Photo ID and SAT Admission ticket.
Bring two No. 2 pencils and a good eraser. Mechanical pencils and pens are not allowed.
Bring a calculator and a set of fresh batteries.
Bring snacks. You will get a short break at the end of each hour of testing time. You can eat or drink any snacks that you have brought during these breaks. The snacks must be in sealed containers and cannot be consumed during testing.
Arrive at your test center no later than 7:45. They will not wait for you to arrive to begin testing. If they begin before you enter the site, you will not be allowed to take the test and you will not get your money back. Testing should be completed between 12:30 and 1:00 PM.
Cell phones, ipods and other electronic devices are not permitted in the testing center. Having such a device during testing will invalidate your test.
Also, be sure to answer carefully. Negative points are given for incorrect answers on the SAT.
Eat Breakfast. You will be at the test center for several hours and are likely to get hungry.
Don’t forget your Photo ID and SAT Admission ticket.
Bring two No. 2 pencils and a good eraser. Mechanical pencils and pens are not allowed.
Bring a calculator and a set of fresh batteries.
Bring snacks. You will get a short break at the end of each hour of testing time. You can eat or drink any snacks that you have brought during these breaks. The snacks must be in sealed containers and cannot be consumed during testing.
Arrive at your test center no later than 7:45. They will not wait for you to arrive to begin testing. If they begin before you enter the site, you will not be allowed to take the test and you will not get your money back. Testing should be completed between 12:30 and 1:00 PM.
Cell phones, ipods and other electronic devices are not permitted in the testing center. Having such a device during testing will invalidate your test.
Also, be sure to answer carefully. Negative points are given for incorrect answers on the SAT.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
ACT and SAT Registration dates
I have had many students ask about ACT and SAT registration. Here is the basic information:
ACT
fee = $30 or $44.50 with writing by Regular Dealine
fee = $49 or $63.50 with writing by Late Deadline
Test Date Regular Registration Deadline Late Registration Deadline
October 27, 2007 October 1, 2007 October 2–October 5, 2007
December 8, 2007 November 2, 2007 November 3–15, 2007
February 9, 2008** January 4, 2008 January 5–18, 2008
April 12, 2008 March 7, 2008 March 8–21, 2008
June 14, 2008 May 9, 2008 May 10–23, 2008
SAT
fee = $43 by regular deadline
fee = $65 by late deadline
Test Date Regular Deadline Late Deadline
October 6, 2007 September 10, 2007 September 14, 2007
November 3, 2007 October 2, 2007 October 11, 2007
December 1, 2007 October 30, 2007 November 8, 2007
January 26, 2008 December 26, 2007 January 4, 2008
March 1, 2008 January 29, 2008 February 7, 2008
May 3, 2008 April 1, 2008 April 10, 2008
June 7, 2008 May 6, 2008 May 15, 2008
ACT
fee = $30 or $44.50 with writing by Regular Dealine
fee = $49 or $63.50 with writing by Late Deadline
Test Date Regular Registration Deadline Late Registration Deadline
October 27, 2007 October 1, 2007 October 2–October 5, 2007
December 8, 2007 November 2, 2007 November 3–15, 2007
February 9, 2008** January 4, 2008 January 5–18, 2008
April 12, 2008 March 7, 2008 March 8–21, 2008
June 14, 2008 May 9, 2008 May 10–23, 2008
SAT
fee = $43 by regular deadline
fee = $65 by late deadline
Test Date Regular Deadline Late Deadline
October 6, 2007 September 10, 2007 September 14, 2007
November 3, 2007 October 2, 2007 October 11, 2007
December 1, 2007 October 30, 2007 November 8, 2007
January 26, 2008 December 26, 2007 January 4, 2008
March 1, 2008 January 29, 2008 February 7, 2008
May 3, 2008 April 1, 2008 April 10, 2008
June 7, 2008 May 6, 2008 May 15, 2008
Welcome LEAF!
Perry is working with the Lake/Geauga Educational Assistance Foundation (LEAF) this year. LEAF is a private non-profit educational information/assistance organization. It is specifically designed to serve the planning preparation and financial needs of prospective college students who have demonstrated the aptitude and desire to succeed. LEAF works with every public high school in Lake and Geauga counties.
This assistance will be available as students plan programs of education beyond the high school experience in a range of settings from entrance into technical skill acquisition training programs to enrollment in college and university settings.
We are very excited to be working with LEAF. Our contact is Barb Meinen. Mrs. Meinen will be at PHS every Tuesday and is available for student and parent appointments. Students can sign up in the Guidance Office for an appointment during a free block or their lunch. She is located in the Main Office, in the office labeled, “College Consulting.” It is Mrs. Meinen’s goal to meet with every senior. Please encourage your students to visit with her, as she has a wealth of knowledge regarding financial aid and continuing education.
Please let your counselor know if you have any questions regarding LEAF, and help us welcome Mrs. Meinen!
This assistance will be available as students plan programs of education beyond the high school experience in a range of settings from entrance into technical skill acquisition training programs to enrollment in college and university settings.
We are very excited to be working with LEAF. Our contact is Barb Meinen. Mrs. Meinen will be at PHS every Tuesday and is available for student and parent appointments. Students can sign up in the Guidance Office for an appointment during a free block or their lunch. She is located in the Main Office, in the office labeled, “College Consulting.” It is Mrs. Meinen’s goal to meet with every senior. Please encourage your students to visit with her, as she has a wealth of knowledge regarding financial aid and continuing education.
Please let your counselor know if you have any questions regarding LEAF, and help us welcome Mrs. Meinen!
Monday, October 1, 2007
Application Component: Secondary School Report
As seniors begin to process their college applications, they will notice that some schools require the completion of a Secondary School Report (or Guidance Counselor form). This report details the student's rank, GPA, difficulty of curriculum, and a recommendation letter from the counselor. The top of the form must be filled out by the student, including the signature, indicating whether a student "does" or "does not" waive their right to review the form and/or recommendation letter.
Several of the Ohio Public schools require the completion of a brief chart detailing your four-year curriculum. These schools are the University of Akron, University of Cincinnati, Cleveland State University, Kent State University, The Ohio State University, and Wright State University. Miami University requires the Common Application (www.commonapp.org) which requires the Secondary School Report.
If you are applying online, you may have to print out this form. YOU have to print it out; we are unable to do so. Also, YOU have to complete the top (student portion); we will not.
If you have any questions regarding the form, please do not hesitate to ask.
Several of the Ohio Public schools require the completion of a brief chart detailing your four-year curriculum. These schools are the University of Akron, University of Cincinnati, Cleveland State University, Kent State University, The Ohio State University, and Wright State University. Miami University requires the Common Application (www.commonapp.org) which requires the Secondary School Report.
If you are applying online, you may have to print out this form. YOU have to print it out; we are unable to do so. Also, YOU have to complete the top (student portion); we will not.
If you have any questions regarding the form, please do not hesitate to ask.
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