Seniors have options for approved activities during PSAT

Staff

On Tuesday, Oct. 26, freshmen, sophomores and juniors will be taking versions of the PSAT. Seniors will not be taking the PSAT so the school administration is asking that they decide between a list of approved options provided below to take advantage of this day.

For 9th Grade Students
  • The PSAT 8/9 is given to all 9th graders at Akins.  This test helps students know if they are on track for high school and what subjects they may need to focus on more.   It also allows them to practice for the PSAT and SAT, and it gives them the confidence of knowing what to expect on those tests.
For 10th & 11th Grade Students
  • PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is given to all 10th and 11th grade students.  It’s designed to help 11th grade students prepare for the SAT, college, and careers.  It allows 10th graders to check their progress and help them prepare for the test in their junior year.
  • Students who take the PSAT/NMSQT in 11th grade may meet the requirements to enter the National Merit Scholarship Program, a prestigious academic competition for recognition and scholarships.

What do Seniors Do?

1. Take the TSI. Become college-ready in math, reading, and writing through either the SAT, ACT, or TSI before you graduate. Report to Mr. Valdez in room 237 to sign up for the exam. 

2. Visit a college. Seniors will need a college visit form from the College and Career Center and have the college/university you visited sign the form during your campus tour. The signed form must be turned in to the attendance office to be excused within three days of your visit. The form does excuse you from the entire school day, but remember it will be a shortened day. Therefore, catch up on any school work you missed. 

3. Take the Fitnessgram. Every senior is required to take the Fitnessgram during the school year. It will not take the entire day, so please select another option to do after you are done with the Fitnessgram. Report to the Gym in the morning and select another option to do until testing is over. 

4.  Study hall in Theatre. Once you join this room you will stay in the room, except for lunch, until testing is over. It will be a study hall so bring your laptop, work, or a book to read. Small groups of students are encouraged to sit together and study or work on group projects together. Although it is not a place to sit and talk, and be on your phones. 

5. Take the ASVAB exam, which is Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery. It is given to determine suitability and placement in the different military branches. It is a helpful career assesment tool if you are trying to decide between different careers. See Ms. Van Horn in room 257 for more information. 

6. Have a Senior Day with the College and Career Center. The CCC will provide assistance on completing the Federal Application for Student Financial Aid (FASFA), college applications, scholarships, and more. There is limited space so the link  to sign up is https://linktr.ee/akinsCCC