School Counseling Department Staff
EXCELLENT SCHOLARSHIP WEBSITE
SCHOLARSHIP AMERICA

This website is an excellent site for local scholarships. Even though some are national scholarships, many are specific to western-PA colleges, and will go to western-PA students. Sign up, create a profile, answer the questions, and check back in on a regular basis to see if there are any updates.

Several BAHS students have scored BIG from this website.

Scholarship America Hub

COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS

I started seeing more and more colleges go "test optional" starting in the Fall of 2020. That means if you are a SENIOR this year (2023-24) you may not have to take the SAT or ACT Exam to apply to college

Here are a couple considerations -- check with your top few colleges to see if they are requiring one of these exams. Also, check to see if NOT taking the SAT or ACT could negatively impact any of the scholarships that the colleges and universities offer to incoming freshman. Some colleges might not require the scores to get accepted, but many scholarships still want to see what your score is before they will even consider you for their money.

ASSERVO PROJECT (Human Trafficking)
Asservo

On Thursday, November 2nd, BASD hosted a representative from the Asservo Project to educate our students on the dangers of trafficking (grades 6-12).

Social media and the internet -- as well as other avenues -- create immense dangers for young people, even in our small community of Brookville. The presentation by the Asservo Project showed students how to be careful, and how to seek out a parent or trusted adult if they ever become concerned about such a situation.

For more information about the Asservo Project and how they rescue people out of these situations, visit this LINK.

If you have concerns and need to share an anonymous tip with them, call this number: 877-SAVE-994.

COLLEGE REP VISITS
college rep visits

We frequently get representatives from colleges and universities who come to the school to meet with students. This is an excellent way for students to find out more about various schools, majors, scholarship opportunities, etc. Occasionally, these reps may be able to waive the application fee, which is typically in the range of $30-$50. I will do my best to keep this list updated with scheduled visits:

  • Duquesne: 9/12/23; 10:00 AM
  • Lycoming: 9/13/23; 1:10 PM
  • St. Vincent: 9/26/23; 10:00 AM
  • Washington & Jefferson: 9/26/23; 12:00 noon
  • IUP: 10/2/23; 10:30 AM
  • Penn West (Clarion, Edinboro, California): 10/3/23: 10:30
  • PSU-Dubois: 10/10/23; 9:00 AM
  • Thiel College: 10/18/23; 1:30 PM
  • Mercyhurst: 10/23/23; 1:00 PM
  • Gannon: 10/24/23; 1:00 PM
  • Alfred University: 11/1/23; 9:00 AM
  • Westminster: 11/7/23; 9:00 AM
SUICIDE & CRISIS PREVENTION -- CALL 988
988 Image

988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), and is now active across the United States.

When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources.

(From the 988 Website)

SAT EXAMS 2023-2024
sat

The SAT Exams will be offered nationwide on the following dates this school year: October 6, 2023; November 4, 2023; December 2, 2023; March 9, 2024; May 4, 2024; June 1, 2024.

Visit the Guidance Office to see the specific tests that will be offered at Brookville.

Many colleges and universities are becoming "test optional" so double-check to see if you have to take it.

Fee waivers are available for students on free/reduced lunches. See Doolittle for that waiver.

Visit their website www.collegeboard.org to create an account and register for an exam. Please record our school code as 390465 so we get your scores and can submit them to colleges with your transcripts. Brookville's test site code is 39-160. WHEN YOU CREATE AN ACCOUNT, MAKE SURE THAT YOU NEVER LOSE YOUR LOGIN AND PASSWORD!!! It is virtually impossible to get it back from them, and you will not be allowed to create another account.

FINANCIAL AID FOR COLLEGE WEBINAR
PHEAA

PHEAA is sponsoring several webinars for families pursuing the FAFSA application process for financial aid for college. This LINK will allow you to view various resources at your convenience.

This webinar is most essential for the families of current high school seniors, but families of younger students could benefit from the information, too, by getting a head start on a confusing process.

COLLEGE CREDITS IN HIGH SCHOOL
College Credits

There are several ways to earn very inexpensive college credits while you are still a student at Brookville Area High School. The most common way is through BAHS classes that will also give you Pitt-Bradford credits. Some students also chose to take "Dual Enrollment" courses through Clarion University. See Mr. Doolittle for details.

Students can earn very inexpensive college credits in the areas of English, Pre-Calc, Calc, Statistics, Biology, Economics, and Computer.

SCHOLARSHIP TIPS
Community Service

Get set up on Fastweb for scholarship notifications. You can decide which ones to apply for and which ones to disregard. Another wonderful site is called Scholarship America, and I have a specific "article" about that site on a different spot on this page.

Starting NOW, come up with some good "community service" involvement that will really be moving to people who read these scholarship essays. This should be more than "Honor Society" litter clean-up, or something that sounds the same as every other essay.

A lot of the local community organizations that decide on these scholarships are just a group of men or women sitting around a table reading essays and asking themselves, "Who do we feel good about giving our money to?" They want an individual who represents them in a positive way AND someone who they feel good about the community service work they have done.

The local essays don't need to be particularly fancy or have really big (awkward) words -- just be emotionally moving and to the point. It IS very important to have excellent grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, etc.

FAFSA is Open
fafsa

Registration for the FAFSA opened on 10/1/2021. This is the biggest avenue for financial aid for most families who have a senior who is considering post-secondary education (college, trade school, etc.).

The first step is to access THIS LINK to sign up for your family's FSA Account (basically an ID number). The student needs an "ID Number" and at least one parent needs an "ID Number."

The next step in the process involves actually filing the FAFSA. The easiest way to complete this step is to have your family's financial information "auto filled" using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool. You will have that option during the process and using this option significantly reduces your family's odds of being selected for review.

You will need the following information to complete the FAFSA:

  • FAFSA Link;
  • Social Security Numbers (student & parent);
  • Income Tax and W-2 information;
  • CURRENT bank statements and records of other investments as of the FAFSA filing date;

Email addresses;

  • FSA Account Number
BASIC INFO FOR PARENTS OF 7TH GRADERS
7th Grade

Starting 7th grade can cause a little bit of apprehension for students and parents. Here are few things to keep in mind that might help the transition go easier.

Every student should have English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Literature (reading) on their schedule. In addition to those classes – depending on how their schedule works out – they may have Health, Phys. Ed., Family & Consumer Science, Art, and/or Computer Applications. Most students will have a “study skills” period to help them get organized and get their work done. Some students will have Band, Choir, or Orchestra. Many students may have a study hall throughout their day.

Sometimes families worry about high school being “too hard.” While it will be challenging at times, I never see students failing because they CAN’T do the assignments. We do a great job of helping kids be successful at BAHS. I’ve observed three major areas that can sabotage students in terms of academic success. Keep your eyes on these areas and ask for help if you, as a parent/guardian, have concerns.

The three trouble spots are as follows, and it should be noted that the teachers, counselors, and principals will be quick to help parents who ask for assistance in any of these areas: 1.) Lack of effort. The student simply chooses not to do what they are asked to do. Homework or in-class assignments are not done. 2.) Lack of organization. Students complete all of their work, or most of it, but then it ends up in the bottom of a locker or book bag, or left at home, and never makes it to the teacher to be graded. 3.) Drama/Social. This is a very chaotic time in our society as far as social media, and 7th grade can be an especially difficult time as old friend groups dissolve and new ones form. Sometimes, “best friends” from elementary school change and that can be difficult. Sometimes, students get caught up in the turmoil of romantic interests. While all of this is normal, to an extent, sometimes students can become consumed with it to the point that it overwhelms all other aspects of their lives, including school. Parents should work hard to communicate with their children about what is going on in their lives and help keep them on an even keel. Once again, ask for help if you need it.

Finally, I would strongly suggest getting new 7th graders involved with junior high sports. If the high school doesn’t actually offer something of interest, maybe the YMCA does. In many aspects, the decisions made now will help set the stage for the rest of their lives. Being fit and active, making new friends, and not being glued to a cell phone or computer 24/7 is a great first step. There are also many clubs & activities throughout the building (and community) that can be wonderful for students to pursue. There are clubs geared toward art, music, writing, history, outdoors, hunting & fishing, medicine, community service, math, science, Bible studies, ecology, peer support, etc. Again – they are a great way to meet new people and get involved with the school and the community.

This is a new and exciting chapter and we will do our best to help each and every student (and family) navigate the waters successfully!

SCHOLARSHIPS!!! Class of 2022
Scholarships

This is the time of year when SENIORS should be looking for scholarships. Scholarships are updated frequently on the Class of 2022 Brightspace page and hard-copies are posted on the bulletin board across from the Guidance Office.

Please email me at rdoolittle@basd.us if you have questions about scholarships, due dates, addresses, etc.

JUNIOR-SENIOR TIMELINE

5 months ago

Preparing for college can be a scary endeavor for some students and families.  On this page, I am going to try to give you some guidelines that will help you stay on track in getting ready for the future.  IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE that if you "missed" any of these steps, it is never too late to backtrack and catch up.  This is only a suggestion guide that may help the process be a little easier.  

PLEASE NOTE:  While this page is primarily geared toward the college application process, I am not the kind of Guidance Counselor who feels that "college is right for everyone."  In fact, statistics that we are seeing indicate that 50% of students who start college end up dropping out, and 50% of those who actually finish college do not find jobs in their intended field.  While additional education after high school is very important to finding good employment, trade schools and technical schools are excellent ways to achieve this training.


9th GRADE & 10th GRADE:

These years are primarily about career exploration and taking the "core classes" and electives that will set students up for the future.  This means taking challenging classes that will prepare you for the rigors of college.  These classes are also the "building blocks" that will help students be able to move on to AP classes, Dual Enrollment classes, or college-in-the high school classes that are offered through BAHS in future years.

Extracurricular activities and community service activities teach students "time management" skills, help bolster their resumes and college applications, and also set students up to be much stronger candidates in terms of scholarship applications.

11th GRADE:

Students should plan to take the SAT or ACT Exam at least once during their junior year.  Classes should still be geared toward the most challenging schedule that the student can take.  A "job shadow" can be arranged to help students refine their career search.  Students should also continue exploring various colleges, universities, majors, and professional fields.  Later in the junior year, and during the summer between junior and senior years, students and families should start visiting various college campuses to get a "feel" for the campuses where the student can envision him/herself attending.

11th grade is a prime year for students to consider "dual enrollment" classes or "college-in-the-high-school" classes.  These are opportunities to accumulate college credits at a significantly less expensive rate than after high school.


12th GRADE:

This is the big year, and often students and families get overwhelmed by everything that they face.  Hang in there... it's temporary... and many, many people go through this process.   Make sure that the SAT or ACT has been taken.  Refine the college search and narrow down the options of schools and majors.  Ideally, the application process will begin early in the senior year, but kids apply all year long. Remember to notify the Guidance Office to request transcripts when you apply.  In OCTOBER, the FAFSA becomes available.  FAFSA is the biggest and best financial aid resource available to families, and opens the door to potential grants and loans through the Federal and State government.  Some national and regional scholarships become available early in the senior year, but most local scholarships don't get advertised until Spring of the senior year.

RANDOM:

These are some random thoughts for the entire process... 1.)  Students hoping to play sports in college need to be aware of very specific course requirements mandated by the NCAA.  2.)  There are frequent visits from college admission representatives to the BAHS Guidance Department. Students should take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about specific colleges and programs.  3.)  FEE WAIVERS are available for the SAT Exam and ACT Exam for students who participate in the free/reduced lunch program.  4.)  Some colleges will waive the application fee (usually $25-$50) if the student is involved with the free/reduced lunch program and a Guidance Counselor writes a letter to the Admissions Office.  5.)  There are usually Free FAFSA Completion Nights at some of the local colleges (PSU-DuBois and Clarion).  College financial aid experts will help families get their online application completed correctly.  6.)  While the Guidance Counselor will help families throughout this process, it is very important for families to utilize the various college admissions offices and financial aid offices for more expert advice/opinions.  7.)  Prior to filing the FAFSA -- or going to one of the "Free FAFSA Completion Nights" -- you will need to get a FSA ID Number from the FAFSA website.  This will have to be done at least several days prior to a financial aid night.  You cannot show up without the ID number and expect to have your FAFSA completed.


By Ray Doolittle


SENIORS -- HAVE YOUR FAMILY'S FINANCES CHANGED???
closed

ATTENTION BAHS SENIOR PARENTS/FAMILIES: A message from PHEAA regarding the current economic climate --

As a reminder, particularly at this tough time economically, families that have filed the FAFSA but now have experienced a job loss or some other reduction in income should be advised to communicate with the financial aid office staff at their college/university/trade school for assistance.

IN OTHER WORDS -- your financial aid package may change and available assistance may go up based on a reduction in income due to job loss, layoff, or similar circumstance.

WARNING FOR SENIORS
SCAM

There is a scam going on affecting seniors going on to college. Students will receive an email stating that they have been selected for a "work-study position" with their chosen university, usually mentioning a specific professor and/or department.

In some cases, they ask the student to reply with personal information. In at least one case, the "sender" tried to arrange an in-person meeting. All of these are scams, intended for who-knows-what.

Have your senior proceed VERY carefully with anything like this. Tell them to check with you (their parents) or me (in Guidance) before proceeding.

Parents... DON'T!
Parents

I frequently get messages from parents who are filling out their son/daughter's SAT application or college application. In my professional opinion, this is NOT a good idea. College is a lot of work, and it is also very expensive... probably over $25,000/year even at a small, local university. If a high school senior does not have the initiative to fill out his/her own application, registration materials, or scholarships, they will probably not have the self-discipline to do the work that is required to be successful at the collegiate level. As a parent, you might think that you are doing them a favor because they are "too busy." However, I have found that the busiest and best seniors find a way to get it done THEMSELVES. Their parents would never do this type of work for them. I hate to see families going into debt for a student who drops out of college after a semester or two -- and the drop-out rate is about 50%. Let your child show you that they are committed to higher education by doing these tasks themselves. Don't do it for them!

NEVER GIVE UP

Let us know if you are struggling to hold on, or if you're going through a difficult time.

MONEY FOR COLLEGE
Raise Me

The website Raise Me gives students the chance to self-report various achievements that will earn them money toward many local colleges -- Clarion, Pitt, PSU, Gannon, Westminster, W&J, and many more. Check out the RaiseMe website to set up your own profile!

REPORT UNDERAGE DRINKING
underage

Call 1-888-UNDER21 (that is, 1-888-863-3721) to report underage drinking, or to report ADULTS who are supplying alcohol to minors. Callers can remain anonymous.

CRISIS HOTLINE

If you (or someone you care about) is thinking about hurting yourself -- or hurting someone else -- DON'T.

Call 1- 800-341-5040 for help!

High School Grading Scale
  • 93-100% = A

  • 85- 92% = B

  • 77- 84% = C

  • 70- 76% = D

  • >69% = F

Earn College Credits in High School
College in the High School

Brookville Area High School offers a variety of classes that will allow students to earn college credits while taking their regular high school classes. The classes are taught by BAHS teachers and the credits are earned through Pitt-Bradford. The college credits are also VERY inexpensive compared to what they will cost students after they graduate high school. Contact Ray Doolittle in Guidance for more information.

Classes associated with this opportunity include Pre-Calculus and Calculus, Advanced Statistics, Economics, AP English Literature, AP Biology, and Pitt-Computers. There are also "Dual Enrollment" opportunities through Clarion University (currently the most economical), PSU-DuBois, and BC-3 (Brockway).

ACT EXAMS 2020-2021
ACT

The ACT Exam will be offered numerous times nationwide this year. Visit their website for test registration and additional information (http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration.html).

Please record our school code as 390465 so we get your scores and can submit them to colleges with your transcripts. The test center code for Brookville is 197010.

(Both the SAT and the ACT are accepted at virtually all colleges that require entrance exams. The biggest difference is that the ACT has a "science" section and the SAT does not.

Free FAFSA Completion Night

BAHS is offering a "Free FAFSA Completion Night" hosted by a PHEAA representative on DEcember 2, 2021 at 6:00 PM in the High School Library. A financial aid expert will be on-hand to help you file your student's financial aid paperwork for college. This is only for the families of SENIORS.

Students and parents BOTH ABSOLUTELY need to have their FSA ID prior to this meeting. Go to this site to obtain the ID: https://fsaid.ed.gov/npas/index.htm .

Families will also need to following information for student AND parents:

  • Social Security Number;
  • Driver's License Number;
  • W-2 Forms;
  • Records of untaxed income received;
  • Federal Income Tax Return
  • Current Bank Statement

PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUESTED!!!

Call 849-8372 (ext. 2806) to register. (Leave a message if you get the recording.) Or email me at rdoolittle@basd.us .

Family Resources

5 months ago

Be sure to visit the U.S. Department of Education's new parent web page that provides resources aimed at parent and family engagement.  This new addition to the USDE's website is a valuable resource for those interested in learning more and getting involved in their child's education.


Below are books recommended by the Brookville Borough Police Department about school safety and security:

Giduck, J. (2005). Terror at Beslan, a Russian tragedy with lessons for America's schools. Archangel Group Inc.

Grossman, D., & DeGaetano, G. (1999). Stop teaching our kids to kill, a call to action against tv, movie & video game violence. New York: Crown.

Dorn, M., & Dorn, C. (2005). Innocent targets when terrorism comes to school. Canada: Safe Havens International, Inc.