July 10, 2024 – Preparing in High School for College or Career

Stephanie Morrison

Plan, Prepare, Push

We have many amazing experiences to plan for our children. Some of those experiences happen in the short-term while others we plan for years. Postsecondary education is one of those long-term planning experiences that we can be putting thought into while we gaze into those precious eyes for the first time and as we notice our toddler’s interest in a certain type of play. 

Oh, how I’ve envisioned my boys in many different careers over the years! I feel blessed to be witnessing all their childhood and development which has fully equipped me to give the direction they need to venture out as adults.

So, from my journey as a parent and listening to the experiences of others in the home education community, I suggest you take a three-stage approach to encourage your child to embrace higher education in its many forms.

Stage 1—Plan: Around the pre-teen/early teen years, strike up conversations that guide your child in future thinking. Talk about work, travel, and hobbies that they think of for their life now and what they see themselves doing in the future. 

Stage 2—Prepare: Around the age of 15, keep up the conversations but also get them to take action on what they say they are interested in. Find courses, training, and mentors related to their interests. Essay writing projects are an ideal way to get them to learn more about possible careers, education paths, and how to be a better writer!

Stage 3—Push: This third stage “P” was a toss up between push and persuade. There can certainly be some persuasion needed at age 16 and up, but I’m going to share more on the concept of giving them a loving “push” to adulthood by: 

• Mentoring, not managing; 
• Directing, not doing; 
• Supporting, not stressing.

Whether it’s more education or another path to achieving career aspirations, your loving push will give them the confidence to take on the life that God has planned for them. 

Listen to the Hey, Mama! Homeschool Show episode, “Preparing in High School for College or Career” for more insights I have for you on this topic!

About the author

Pursuing her calling to help parents enjoy the responsibility of educating their children, Steph works with select clients in the home education industry and helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses from home. She and her family are perfectly placed in the prairies of Saskatchewan, Canada. She loves being a homebody and building up her permaculture property. Learn more about Steph at: www.CreatingWorkandPlay.com.

Equipping students to give their lives for the cause of Christ in the Church, among the nations, and in every aspect of society.  www.collegeatsoutheastern.com 

Alexandria Letkeman

Preparing for College or Career: A Guide for Homeschooling Parents

As your child approaches high school, it’s important to start planning for their future, whether that includes college or a career. Here are five practical tips to help homeschooling parents ensure their children are well prepared for life after high school.

1. Create a Structured Curriculum:

A well rounded, structured curriculum is essential. Include core subjects such as math, science, English, and social studies, and don’t miss electives that your child is passionate about. For college-bound students, ensure they meet the prerequisites for college admissions. For those leaning towards a career, focus on hands-on skills and required certifications.

2. Encourage Dual Enrollment:

Many community colleges offer dual enrollment programs for high school students. This not only provides college credits, but also gives your child a taste of college-level work. It’s a great way to build their confidence and transcript simultaneously. Pro tip: it can also save you money! Dual enrollment classes tend to be less expensive. 

3. Develop Soft Skills:

Regardless of your child’s path, soft skills such as communication, time management, and critical thinking are invaluable. Encourage your child to participate in activities that build these skills, such as speech and debate teams or volunteering. These experiences can also personalize their college applications or resumes.

4. Explore Internships and Work Experience:

Look for internship opportunities, part-time jobs, or volunteer positions related to your child’s interests. These provide practical experience and will help your child develop a professional network and understand workplace expectations. Added bonus: internships and jobs can be added to the transcript as “Occupational Education!”

5. Prepare for Standardized Tests and Applications:

For college-bound students, standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT are essential. Start preparation early, with practice tests and prep courses. Additionally, prepare for college applications, including writing essays and gathering recommendation letters. For career-focused students, help them build a strong resume and practice job interview skills.

With some preparation and dedication, you will be ready for whatever path your student decides to take. You know your child better than anyone and you are completely capable of offering the guidance required through high school. You can do it! 

About the author

Alexandria Letkeman began homeschooling with her family in middle school and has recently graduated with honors in 2020. Together with her husband, she has developed a passion for financial literacy, classical writing, and the freedom that homeschooling provides. In pursuit of those passions, she and her husband aim to continue the legacy of The HomeScholar and continue helping homeschool parents homeschool with confidence. One day, Alex plans to start a homesteading farm in Texas featuring mini cows.

 Belhaven University is Your Haven. With over 80+ programs taught from a Christian Worldview, Belhaven offers a place for homeschooled students to thrive! Learn more: https://www.belhaven.edu/admission/undergrad/apply/home-school.html 

Renita Bentz-Miller

Beginning With the End in Mind

Oh no, I can hear you are hyperventilating again. Stop, breathe, relax! 

Yes, I’m talking about high school and beyond. Your darling little student has grown into an “almost” full-grown adult.

So, what can you do to prepare them for college or career? First off, you can pray! So often I forget to start here, asking the Lord to show me (and them) the plan He has for them. All our best efforts can be a complete waste of time if we are not heading the direction that the Lord has mapped out for us. Before we get distracted by all the wonderful options and directions that are available, we should spend some quality time with the Lord learning what He is willing and ready to show us for our child.

Next, let’s begin with the end in mind. I know it’s a bit trite, but it really is good advice. What kind of adult do you dream this awkward, sometimes moody, eating machine of a teenager will become? We need to see past what we can see at this moment and imagine the adult that is growing inside. What are their interests, passions, and talents—those gifts that God has given them? I believe if you look carefully, you can see they have been there from the beginning.

Now, you can ask the right questions! Don’t assume that college is for everyone. Is a degree something they need to pursue the path the Lord has for them? If so, then get focused on what they need to accomplish the goal. Design their course of study with some guidance from the college requirements. 

But what if they are unsure what they want? Or what if college isn’t what they need to chase their dreams? Then, give them the freedom and time to pursue different interests and ideas during these brief high school years.

This is a beautiful time to be a parent. Don’t worry, you are not powerful enough to stop the plan the Lord has for them. Relax and enjoy the journey together!

About the author

Renita Bentz-Miller is married to her best friend and is the happy (slightly crazy) mom plus “bonus-mom” to 16 children. She is the co-creator of CrossWired Science, a full K-12 science curriculum for the entire family.  When not chasing children, or dogs, she enjoys long hikes, hot coffee, and a great book. Connect with her at www.momofmanybentzs.blogspot.com or online at www.crosswiredscience.com.

Pillar of Knowledge

Roger Smith

What’s Next?

Got “destination disease”?

“When I get to    XYZ , I will . . .” 

That is a typical statement of a person in neutral—a person with destination disease.

The high school years are a perfect time to begin preparation for the next phase, not just in dreaming about it, but actually learning and practicing for it. I refer to those years as the time of specialization. And that is not being neutral, not having destination disease.

Parents must listen closely as teenagers express their passions and interests. They indicate what skills and experiences they should pursue now. 

High school is not a time for play. Teens have a huge capacity that often goes untapped. They can work, solve problems, create opportunities, serve others, and build relationships with important people. All of these are active steps toward a successful journey through the next phase.

Help your teens see themselves as competent, capable, and significant. Encourage them to work alongside adults in volunteer roles, to pursue knowledge about their passions and interests. The parent’s job is to give perspective and insight regarding those experiences.

High school is a time where they can easily exceed others’ expectations. It feels good! And it’s infectious!

About the author

Dr. Roger Smith is a family doctor in rural Louisiana, where he and his wife, Jan, raised four adventurous children who are all grown, making their own mark in the world. He speaks and writes on parenting issues and produces brief videos that can be found on Facebook @ParentingMattersNow.

Are you a high school student wondering, “What is God’s will for my life?” or “How can I be sure I’m on the right path?” These are some of the most important questions you’ll ever ask. Introducing What’s Next: Discovering God’s Will for Your Life—a transformative six-session course designed to guide you through these crucial decisions. Through inspiring stories of Biblical figures like Ruth and Esther, you’ll gain profound insights and encouragement straight from the Scriptures. Join us and embark on a journey to uncover God’s perfect plan for your life!