Guiding Students to Their Future

A Roadmap for College & Career Readiness

Graduates reach a fork in the road after high school.

Once they finish their senior year, students have several options that forecast their professional lives: They can attend college, enter the workforce, or join the military.

In Manteca Unified, we set students up for ultimate success by ensuring they are prepared for whichever path they choose after high school. For example, in recent years, MUSD has worked to align Career Technical Education courses with college-approved “A-G” classes, so students who are training to get a specific job after they graduate, such as in Hospitality or Agriculture, are still eligible to go to college! To match the evolving nature of the workforce, students in MUSD have more options than ever before.

As students journey through high school, parents and care providers should know how their child is being prepared for college and careers and how they can help support them from home. To provide insight, Adrian Hernandez, MUSD’s 2023 School Counselor of the Year, discussed what students and families should expect during each unique year of high school.

Road Map to High School

8th Grade – Horizon to High School

What students are doing: Reviewing the high school course catalog and selecting their freshman classes with their high school’s academic counselor.

How parents can help from home: Attending your child’s freshman course selection appointment reaffirms your role as an active participant in your child’s educational journey.

9th Grade

What students are doing: As they embark on freshman year, students are navigating a larger campus and learning about class and extracurricular opportunities, such as sports and clubs. Students review their progress with their counselor and start to initiate a plan to help maintain success and reach their goals.

How parents can help from home: Talk to your child about which classes they’re enjoying and areas they are struggling with so you can help them set and maintain academic goals. Encourage good study habits and communication skills.

10th Grade

What students are doing: During their sophomore year, students begin to capitalize on their interests and focus on exploring course and pathway options with their counselor.

How parents can help from home: Continue to check in with your child about their evolving interests and encourage them to challenge themselves by getting more involved at school and in the community. They could take an exciting CTE class, join a new club, or audition for theater or band.

11th Grade

What students are doing: Throughout their junior year, students work to narrow down options and career goals after high school. 11th grade is the best time to attend college fairs and visit campuses and programs of interest. Students work with their counselor to register for courses that will set them up for a solid senior year to be better prepared for life after high school.

How parents can help from home: Check in with your child’s teachers and counselor to discuss their ongoing progress. These conversations can often lead to great ideas about opportunities your child can pursue after they finish high school!

12th Grade

What students are doing: As they reach senior year, students work to confirm plans after high school and meet with their counselor to discuss important deadlines, dates, and requirements. They also participate in traditional end-of-school activities and celebrations!

How parents can help from home: As senior year is a critical time for your child, try to attend and participate in school-sponsored Parent Nights and Workshops that will provide helpful information and support!