Freshman Page

For many students, St. Elizabeth Academy offers opportunities and challenges unlike those previously experienced. Our Individualized Curriculum allows students to move forward in their studies at a pace that fits their abilities. During classes, we cover the following topics:

- - College Preparation
  - The Yearly and Cumulative GPA.
  - How to Raise a Grade
  - Study Skills
  - SEA Required Classes

During February of each year, students choose the courses they will take their sophomore year. In meetings with their advisors, they discuss course options and develop their required, though tentative, 4-year plan of study. Samples of 4-year plans are found in the Guidance folder of the Edline.net site where students and parents can view student grades and progress.

After Spring Break, freshmen are encouraged to sign-up for an appointment in the Guidance office. There they will review a copy of their transcript and courses planned for 10^th grade. Parents are welcome to attend this meeting with students if there are questions about the 4-year plan or course choices for 10th grade.

Some items for freshmen and their families to consider:

Schedule rigorous high school courses. By graduation you should have taken 4 yrs English and at least 3 yrs each of math, science and social studies.
Become familiar with college entrance requirements. Your academic performance (GPA, class rank, types of courses you take), ACT scores, teacher and counselor recommendations, extracurricular activities essays and interviews are all important factors at most colleges.
Complete a self-assessment. Students will identify their strengths, values and interests and begin to understand the importance of career development.
Research college costs, scholarships and other forms of financial aid. If you haven’t begun to save for college, do so as soon as possible.
Begin talking with your parents about college costs and how it will be paid for.
When you register for your tenth-grade classes, keep in mind the minimum requirements for college entrance in the majors you find interesting.
Grades matter! Get in the habit of doing well and it will be a lot easier to keep up your GPA through all four years.