Day 3 - The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Broadening & Diversifying AP
Enrollment through ACCESS
Tammy Wolfe
twolfe@k12k.com
AP Coordinator
Dobyns-Bennett High School
Dobyns-Bennett High School
Demographics
2,179 - 2015-2016 Enrollment
48% Economically Disadvantaged
15.7% Students with Disabilities
86% Caucasian
7.9% African American
2.9% Hispanic
2.0% Asian
1.0% Other or Multi-racial
D-B Enrollment 2007-2015
DB Disadvantaged Population
2007-2015
50
48
45
43
39
40
38
37
36
35
32
30
28
26
25
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
Disadvanteged Percent
2012
2013
2014
2015
Students Enrolled in AP
450
422
400
339
350
311
300
254
250
200
150
100
50
0
184 188
156
168
200 210 213
194
185
269 266 274
AP Exams Given
800
754
700
643
602
600
557
528 540
524
500
436 428
386 384
400
313
300
200
100
0
340
371 369 381
AP School Scholars 2015
 56 AP Scholars (+5 over 2014)
– College credit on 3 or more subjects.
 29 AP Scholars with Honor (+11 over 2014)
– Must have scored an average of 3.25 on all tests and earned
college credit on 4 or more subjects.
 30 AP Scholars with Distinction (-2 below 2014)
– Must have scored an average of 3.5 on all tests and earned college
credit on 5 or more subjects.
 5 National AP Scholars (+5 over 2014)
– Must have scored an average of 4 on all tests and earned a 4 on 8
or more subjects.
more total scholars than 2013-14.
Dobyns-Bennett AP Trends
1200
2007-2015
1001
1000
851
755
800
721
695
653
488
426
400
644
602
594
600
666
525
536
521
431
428
557
549
451
450
528
524
463
489
424
342
422
311
253
268
264
266
274
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
339
212
200
0
2007
Exams Taken
Exams Passed
Students
2013
2014
Disadvantaged
2015
2014 AP Rankings by School Exams Taken
Ranking
School
Exams Taken
% Low ED
% SWD
1
Brentwood High School
1877
4.5
7.7
2
Ravenwood High School
1386
4.4
7.9
3
Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet
1330
20.9
1.9
4
MLK Magnet
1067
28.3
1.7
5
Farragut High School
1007
15.1
8.4
6
Central Magnet
1006
7.9
0.6
7
Houston High School
991
11.0
7.6
8
Colliervile High School
973
12.7
13.2
9
Centennial High School
971
23.0
10.6
10
White Station High School
904
41.4
7.5
11
Franklin High School
816
7.2
7.2
12
Hardin Valley Academy
746
26.3
7.7
13
Oak Ridge High School
702
39.3
13.2
14
Morristown West High
678
49.0
8.4
15
Dobyns-Bennett High School
643
43.0
15.7
2014 AP Rankings by School
#College Credits
Ranking
School
# Earning 3 or
Higher on Exam
1
Brentwood High School
1339
2
Ravenwood High School
1286
3
Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet
984
4
MLK Magnet
754
5
Farragut High School
746
6
Central Magnet
740
7
Collierville High School
719
8
White Station High School
674
9
Franklin High School
645
10
Houston High School
593
11
Centennial High School
568
12
Oak Ridge High School
511
13
Dobyns-Bennett High School
477
AP Rankings By School
 Only 19 high schools in TN gave 600 or more AP
tests during the 13-14 school year.
 Of those, D-B ranked #3 in % earning college
credit.
1. Ravenwood High School 79.7% (4.4% LED)
2. White Station High School 74.6% (41.4% LED)
3. Dobyns-Bennett High School 74.2% (43% LED)
College Credits Earned 2014
Student Identification
Student Identification
Student Identification
Freshmen
EXPLORE Composite Score of 20^
TVASS percentile at lease 70^
English teacher rec for Honors English
course
Student Enrollment
Rising seniors meet individually with their
counselor
Rising freshmen meet individually with
their counselor
Rising sophomores & juniors meet with a
trained teacher to pick and schedule
classes
Create a College Going Culture
Create a College Going Culture
Create a College Going Culture
Create a College Going Culture
Student Focused… World Class
The only School District in
Tennessee to ever
receive an Achievement Award
Nationally-recognized as a Top High School
22 Advanced Placement
Courses offered
Largest band in Tennessee
and ranked #2 in U.S. (AAA)
Top 5 Composite
Score in Tennessee
Winningest Basketball and
Baseball programs in the U.S.
Student Support Services
Tribe Time Tutoring
Student Support Services
Key Points
 Student placement is critical for high achieving success
 Students can be successful in a culture where all
students are encouraged and supported toward
excellence.
 Require a rigorous curriculum that prepares all
students for college admission & completion.
 Provide support systems to ensure all students success
in college courses especially AP courses
 Create a college going culture so students will strive to
meet expectations
DB ACCESS PROGRAM
Access College Credits for Every Student’s Success
Dobyns-Bennett offers many college credit opportunities for students while in high school.
Taking college courses in high school helps prepare the student for college, saves money, and
gives the student the confidence of being successful in college. Students can participate in
college credit in three ways at DB – Advanced Placement (AP), Dual Enrollment, Dual Credit or
Credit by Examination.
AP Courses Offered at Dobyns-Bennett High School
Language Arts
AP English Language & Composition
AP English Literature & Composition
Fine Arts
AP Studio Art
AP Music Theory
Math & Computer Science
AP Calculus AB/BC
AP Statistics
AP Computer Science A
Science
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Environmental Science
AP Physics I
AP Physics C: Mechanics
Social Studies
AP European History
AP US History
AP US Government & Politics
AP Human Geography
AP Psychology
AP Macroeconomics
AP World History
World Languages
AP French Language
AP Spanish Language
AP Latin: Vergil
AP German
AP Course Cost: End of Course AP Exam $91
Dual Enrollment Courses Offered at Dobyns-Bennett High School
Northeast State Community College
English Composition I
English Composition II
Statistics
Speech
Tennessee Tech
Principles of Engineering (PLTW)
Tennessee State University
Large Animal Science
Dual Enrollment Grant Program (Tennessee Lottery)
Students may be eligible for the Tennessee Lottery Dual Enrollment Grant. Students must complete an
application online through the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC) within the appropriate time
frame. http://www.tn.gov/collegepays/
Dual Enrollment students may qualify for up to $600 per academic year ($300 per semester). Students must
meet a 3.0 GPA or a 21 composite on ACT. Students must maintain a 2.75 cumulative college GPA to
continue receiving the Dual Enrollment Grant.
Credit by Examination Courses Offered at Dobyns-Bennett High School
Northeast State Community College
Principles of Accounting
Principles of Business
Computer Applications
Sanitation and Safety
Criminal Justice
Business Management
Essentials of Web Design
Engine Analysis
East Tennessee State University
Principles of Accounting I
Business Management
Course Cost: Free
Statewide Dual Credit Courses Offered at Dobyns-Bennett High School
End of course exam is mandatory for all students taking the class. If a student meets or exceeds the
established cut score, the student will earn three credits which can be applied at any public
postsecondary institution in the state.
Sociology
Criminal Justice 1
Greenhouse Management
Pre-Calculus
Course Cost: Free
Tennessee Tech University
Principles of Engineering: PLTW (Project Lead the Way Credit) – ENGR 1210 (1 credit hour) will be awarded
to secondary school students who participate in the “Project Lead the Way” and achieve a minimum grade
70% on the nationalized “Final Exam on Principles of Engineering”. The requesting student will need to have
his/her test score sent to TTU.
Course Cost: Possible fee required
Please refer to the Dobyns-Bennett Course Catalog for enrollment information in
Dobyns-Bennett ACCESS courses.
ACCESS
ACCESS
Access College Credits for Every Students Success
Access College Credits for Every Students Success
6:00
Opening Session
Nancy Pridemore Theater
6:00
Opening Session
Nancy Pridemore Theater
AP Informational Rotations
6:20
6:40
7:00
7:20
AP Informational Rotations
6:20
6:40
7:00
7:20
Room W172 AP Art & Music Theory
Room W172 AP Art & Music Theory
Room W173 AP Chemistry & Physics I & Physics C:
Mechanics
Room W173 AP Chemistry & Physics I & Physics C:
Mechanics
Room W174 AP Calculus AB & Computer Science A
Room W174 AP Calculus AB & Computer Science A
Room W175 AP Government, Human Geography,
& Macroeconomics
Room W175 AP Government, Human Geography,
& Macroeconomics
Room W176 AP English Literature &
English Language
Room W176 AP English Literature &
English Language
Room W177AP US History, European History,
Psychology
Room W177AP US History, European History,
Psychology
Room W178 AP Biology
Room W178 AP Biology
Room W179 AP Statistics & Calculus BC
Room W179 AP Statistics & Calculus BC
Room W180 AP World Languages
Room W180 AP World Languages
Dual Enrollment and Credit by Exam information
available at the table located in the Little Theater
entrance area.
Dual Enrollment and Credit by Exam information
available at the table located in the Little Theater
entrance area.
ACCESS
ACCESS
Access College Credits for Every Students Success
Access College Credits for Every Students Success
Dobyns-Bennett High School - Kingsport City Schools College Credits
Earned by the Graduation Class of 2014
AP Credits
# of Students that
# of Credit Earned
Hours
College
2155
116
Dobyns-Bennett High School - Kingsport City Schools College Credits
Earned by the Graduation Class of 2014
# of Students in 2014 Class
AP Credits
# of Students that
# of Credit Earned
Hours
College
2155
116
Dual Enrollment
561
70
Dual Enrollment
561
70
Career/Technical
Credit by Exam
60
17
Career/Technical
Credit by Exam
60
17
2776
168
2776
168
Total
473
23 from the Class of 2014 earned 20 or more college credits
16 from the Class of 2014 earned 30 or more college credits
11 from the Class of 2014 earned 40 or more college credits
Total
# of Students in 2014 Class
473
23 from the Class of 2014 earned 20 or more college credits
16 from the Class of 2014 earned 30 or more college credits
11 from the Class of 2014 earned 40 or more college credits
AP PREVIEW
WORKSHOP
A look at the curriculum
Day 1: Pre-course survey
• Survey participants on skill knowledge & confidence
Day 1: Discussion
• Discussion of
anxieties &
needs regarding
taking an AP
course for the
first time
Day 1: Digital Toolkit & Application
• Review digital resources & practice application of
necessary skills
• Edvance 360 (digital learning classroom platform)
• Learnerator (AP test prep support program)
• College Board: AP Central – guide to the website
• Google
• Calendar
• G-mail
• Google Docs
Day 1: Review Survey Results
Day 1: Overview of Week
• Give overview of the week’s goals and agenda
• Day 1: The AP Toolkit
• Day 2: The AP Mindset
• Day 3: Habits of Highly Effective AP Students: Self-management
• Day 4: Habits of Highly Effective AP Students: Interpersonal Skills
and Teamwork / Stress Management
• Day5: Socratic Seminars and Essays
Day 2: the AP “Mindset”
• Mindset survey
Day 2: the AP “Mindset”
• Mindset survey
Day 2: the AP “Mindset”
• Mindset survey
Day 2: the AP “Mindset”
• The Research
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh0OS4MrN3E
Day 2: the AP “Mindset”
• Academic Skills
• Close reading
• Text Marking
Day 2: the AP “Mindset”
• Academic Skills: Discussion
Day 3: Habits of Highly Effective AP
Students: Self-Management
• Introduction to 7 Habits
• Stephen Covey is famous for developing the 7 Habits
system and has adapted his work for teens. Watch the
following video as an introduction to the habits. How can
you adopt these habits to increase success in your life?
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrLsG2GrrmA
Day 3: Habits of Highly Effective AP
Students: Self-Management
• Covey’s Habits 1-3
• Habit 1: Be Proactive®
I am responsible for my education and life.
• Habit 2: Begin With the End in Mind®
I have a plan for what I want to accomplish.
• Habit 3: Put First Things First®
I do the most important things first.
Day 3: Habits of Highly Effective AP
Students: Self-Management
• Rocks Illustration
Day 3: Habits of Highly Effective AP
Students: Self-Management
• Smart Goals
&
Calendar Planning Exercise
Day 3: Habits of
Highly Effective
AP Students:
Self-Management
• Calendar
Planning
Reflections
Day 4: Habits of Highly Effective AP
Students: Interpersonal Skills &
Teamwork
• Covey’s Habits 4-6
• Habit 4: Think Win-Win®
I am considerate of others, but I also have the courage to stand up
for myself.
• Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood ®
I hear people out before expressing my own opinion.
• Habit 6: Synergize®
I value the strengths of other people and combine them with my
own to solve problems.
Day 4:
Habits of
Highly
Effective AP
Students:
Interpersona
l Skills &
Teamwork
• Common Problems
we face in Group
work
Day 4: Habits
of Highly
Effective AP
Students:
Interpersonal
Skills &
Teamwork
• Approaches to Group
Work
Day 4: Habits of
Highly Effective
AP Students:
Interpersonal
Skills &
Teamwork
• Strategies for
Effective Group
Work
Day 4: Habits of Highly Effective AP
Students: Interpersonal Skills &
Teamwork
• Practice Exercise
Day 4: Habits of Highly Effective AP
Students: Interpersonal Skills &
Teamwork
• Practice Exercise
Day 4: Habits of Highly Effective AP
Students: Sharpen the Saw
• Covey’s Habit 7
• Stress management 101
Day 5: Socratic Seminar
• How to prepare for and participate in academic
conversation: Socratic seminars
Day 5: Socratic Seminar
• How to prepare for and participate in academic
conversation: Socratic seminars
Day 5: AP essay writing
• How to
prepare for
and write an
AP Essay
Day 5: AP essay writing
• How to prepare for and write an AP Essay – students
share on GoogleDocs w/ teacher
Day 5: Post Survey & Reflections
Day 5: Post Survey & Reflections
CLASS of
2016
C
O
Dobyns-Bennett
High School
L
A Guide
to the
College Search
and
Application Process
L
E
G
E
A
P
P
L
I
C
A
T
I
O
N
Dobyns-Bennett High School
1800 Legion Drive - Kingsport, TN 37664
423.378.8400 - dbhs.k12k.com
B
O
O
K
Welcome
To the college search and application process!!
Dear Student,
Congratulations!! You are approaching one of the most exciting time of your life.
Utilize the College Application Book to guide you through a smooth process to determine where you will pursue your post-secondary education and/or training. As you
move though this journey, remember to rely on all of your resources:









Parents
Counselors
Teachers
Friends in college
College Admission Representatives
Financial Aid Representatives
DB Career Counseling Center
DB College Advising Meetings
College Representative Days @ DB
Remember, you are not on your own! Dobyns-Bennett is committed to helping you find
your path after high school. Reach out to your resources for help. It is one of the most
important times of your life so be prepared, stay focused, and work hard.
Enjoy the journey,
Counseling Staff
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome ..........................................................................................2
Table of Contents ............................................................................3
Four Year Guideline, High School ...................................................4
Guideline, Applying for College........................................................5
Counselor Roles & Responsibilities .................................................6
Student Roles & Responsibilities .....................................................7
Parent Roles & Responsibilities .......................................................8
Frequently Asked Questions ............................................................9
Dobyns-Bennett Deadlines ............................................................ 10
The Process................................................................................... 11
College Admission Testing ............................................................ 12
College Search/Scholarship Search .............................................. 13
Financial Aid Website Resources .................................................. 14
Financial Aid Resources ................................................................ 15
Students with Disabilities ............................................................... 16
Keys to Success in College ........................................................... 17
Appendix ........................................................................................ 19
Personal Data Sheet ...................................................................... 20
Transcript Request ........................................................................ 21
3
Planning
Grades 9-12
4 Year Guideline
Preparing for College
9th Grade
 Remember your GPA counts

Join a club or sport for 4 years

Start volunteering

Begin a resume

Take a career & interest inventory
assessment with the Career Counselor. Research careers from the
assessment results.

Take classes at DB that relate to
your career goals. Meet with your
counselor to discuss any schedule
changes that need to be made.
Begin to research colleges and/or
technical schools
 Create a folder of all awards,
honors, volunteer work & extracurricular activities you do.

10th Grade
 Maintain or raise your GPA

Consider applying to attend
governors’ school in the area of your
interest in the summer.
11th Grade
 Concentrate on your GPA

Continue to identify areas of interest
that you would like to study in college
or receive technical training through
the College & Career Counselor

Schedule/take the ACT

Volunteer for a leadership role in a
club or activity

Prepare a list of colleges or technical
schools that you would consider
attending

Visit potential college/technical school
campuses during your fall, spring
and/or summer breaks

Attend a College Fair

Meet with college representative
during college visit days at DB

Be active in clubs/sports

Volunteer

Narrow your list of potential schools

Continue to research colleges and/
or technical schools

Continue to volunteer

Update resume/folder of information

Take PSAT and PLAN


Update resume/folder of information

Prepare for the ACT/SAT in the
summer before junior year
Discuss with your counselor in your
rising senior scheduling meeting your
career and education plans

Take the PSAT

If planning to continue with sports in
college, register with NCAA, NAIA or
NJCAA.

Update the career assessment &
interest inventory assessment
4
Planning
Grades 9-12
4 Year Guideline
Applying for College
12th Grade
 Take and/or retake the ACT/SAT
college admissions test.

Attend college representative visits
and College Fairs

Decide to what college/technical
school you want to apply!!

Apply to colleges online and request
copies of your transcript in the
Counseling Office. Request for
letters of recommendation if needed
and allow two weeks notice for
recommendations.

Write and edit college essays if
needed

Ask 2 teachers if they will write
recommendation letters to specific
colleges & give them a copy of your
resume




Request transcripts and test scores to
be sent to colleges/technical schools
Apply for institutional scholarships
listed on the schools website. Pay
close attention to deadlines.
Apply for transferrable scholarships
which are listed in the “Go For It”
newsletter and DB Announcements.
Pay attention to deadlines. Other
transferrable scholarships may be
found online through online research.

Submit TN/VA scholars volunteer hours
to the Counseling Office before Jan. 15

Register for your FAFSA pin number in
December at www.fafsa.ed.gov

Apply for federal financial aid on or
after January 1st of your senior year at
www.fafsa.ed.gov. Use an estimated
tax statement from the previous years
tax return, then update the FAFSA
when tax returns are completed.

You should receive your Student Aid
Report within 3 days to 3 weeks after
you submit your FAFSA. Make any
corrections if needed and submit them
to the FAFSA processor.

Keep a copy of every form submitted
for your files as well as usernames
and passwords!

Compare the cost of all the colleges
you have been accepted for admission.

Universal deadline for making a
commitment to a college is May 1st.

Follow all instructions from the college
for admissions and housing
requirements if necessary to complete
your enrollment process.

Follow all instructions from the college
for housing, financial aid, and
admissions.
If planning to continue with sports in
college, register with NCAA, NAIA, or
NJCAA.
5
College
Applications
How Applications
Are Evaluated
Most colleges evaluate applicants from a holistic approach, meaning there is not a solid
cut off for test scores for admission. Colleges will evaluate a prospective students acceptance based on:

GPA is converted to an overall 4.0 scale (unweighted). Weighted classes are then factored back into
admission consideration to compare rigor to achievement factor.

Individual Subject Area Test Scores—ACT/SAT median score of college applicant pool

Overall Test Scores (ACT/SAT Composite)

Essays or candidate statement

Rigor of senior academic schedule

Overall grade trends through junior year

Recommendation letters

Extra-curricular involvement/leadership in and out of school

Admission by specific program such as honors or competitive scholar programs

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) may be required of non-native speakers of English.
Counselor Roles & Responsibilities
1. Advise on College Choices
Your counselor can help with the college search process. Just ask!!
2. Coordinate the Admission Process
Review the “Process for Submitting Your College Applications”
3. Write a Letter of Recommendation
Two weeks notice, resume, and the Student Information
Recommendation Form is required for a recommendation in order for
your counselor to write the best letter possible.
4. Advocate the Student’s Best Interests
Your counselor can advocate on your behalf in the admissions process
should you need your counselor to intervene on your behalf. For
example, a misinterpretation of a transcript or misunderstanding during t
he application process. You must let your counselor know you need their
help to settle the misunderstanding!!
6
College
Applications
Student Roles & Responsibilities
Selecting a school to continue education after high school is a crucial decision
that must be made by the individual student. Although teachers, counselors,
and parents are willing to support the process, there are many responsibilities
along with the application process that relies solely upon the student.
1
Meet with Your Counselor for
Suggestions & Assistance
The first step is to identify what you are
interested in pursing beyond high school. If
you do not know, schedule a career
assessment with the Career Counselor to
identify your career interests. Also complete a
college search which will identify colleges to
attend that match your educational goals. The
Career Counselor can assist you with
developing a plan so you can receive help
from your counselor with the application process. Plan to attend the senior meeting in
September and refer to the “Go For It”
Newsletter online. Do this early in your senior
year!!
2
Review Application
Procedures
Most colleges require students to apply online
at the college’s website.
Some colleges
participate in the Common Application service
located at www.commonapp.org which can
save a huge amount of time. Regardless,
most colleges require an application fee which
is paid upon applying to the school. Some
colleges will waive the fee or allow a time
period for free application. It is recommended
that you should apply to more than one school
to guarantee acceptance, however; applying
to many schools can be costly and stressful
when it is time to make a decision on the
3
Complete Application &
Required Admission Forms
Although your senior year is super busy, it is
your responsibility to complete the admission
requirements set forth by the schools. Budget
your time wisely so you can meet deadline
dates!
4
Complete All Standardized
Tests Required for Admission
Research which tests are required for
admission at the colleges/technical schools
of your choice. Most schools accept the ACT
and/or SAT but may require additional tests.
Schedule and take the required tests well in
advance of the deadline just in case you
want to retake the test.
5
Meet all Required Deadlines
for Dobyns-Bennett High
School
Dobyns-Bennett Counseling Office and
colleges have deadline dates. Counselors
require a two-week notice for recommendation letters.
Colleges have application,
scholarship, and housing deadlines that you
must become familiar with as you plan your
list of “things to do”. Become familiar with all
of the deadline dates and do not
procrastinate!!
7
College
Applications
Parent’s Role & Responsibilities
The parent’s role in the college preparation process is to assist & support their child in
making the best decision of where to attend college or technical school. The college
application process requires effective communication between the parent
and the child. Review the tips below to help make this process easier as you give
guidance to your child:
1
Provide Encouragement &
Support
The college and career application process
can be one of the most stressful times of a
student’s life. It can be equally as frightening
and confusing to the parent. As your child
completes this process, give them support and
encouragement to navigate their way. With
your support they will make the right
decisions. Communication is key between the
parent, student, and counselor in order for the
college search and selection process to be
productive and less stressful. Treat it as a
working partnership!
2 Assist with Deadlines
It is the student’s responsibility to meet the
required deadlines set forth by the colleges
and Dobyns-Bennett High School. However,
a reminder to meet those deadlines could be
helpful to your child. For some, the reminder
must be constant to ensure they do not miss
the necessary deadline!
3 Determine the Financial Plan
The financial plan to pay for college or technical school is the primary responsibility of the
parent. Students have a vested interest,
however; financial aid forms require tax return
information of the parent. The student should
become familiar with the overall process of
determining a financial plan so they can
properly select a school in which they can
afford and the financial parameters that are in
place to assist in payment of their education.
It is helpful to use the Net Price Calculator on
every college’s website in the Financial Aid
area to help to determine the overall cost of
the specific school.
Financial aid and
scholarship awards normally begin in March of
the senior year after the FAFSA has been
received by the schools.
4 College Visits
Parents are encouraged to attend college
visits with their child. Parents have a vested
interest in the college or technical school their
student will be attending. Attend college fairs
with your child, but don’t takeover the conversation with the college representatives. Just
listen, and let your child do the talking.
5 School Counselor Resource
Contact your child’s school counselor via
email or by phone if you have questions
regarding the application process.
8
Frequently Asked
Questions
Question
Answer
When should I apply to college?
Colleges encourage students to apply as early as
possible during the senior year. Some colleges begin
acceptance as early as September 1st. Students should
become familiar with application and scholarship
deadlines. Keep in mind that colleges prefer to see a
strong senior schedule and good grades for competitive
admissions.
What is early action and early decision?
Some (ED) early decision plans are binding-a student
who is accepted as an ED applicant must attend the
college. Early action plans are nonbinding– students
receive an early response to their application but do not
have to commit to the college until the normal reply date
of May 1. ED application do not have the opportunity to
compare financial aid packages from other colleges
which can be a disadvantage of early decision.
Should I try to graduate early from high
school to start college early?
Early graduation can impact financial aid and
scholarships. If considering early graduation, you must
see your counselor.
What if I do not know what college major
to select or have no idea what I want to
major in my freshmen year of college?
Approximately 60% of college freshmen are “undecided”
about their major. It is important to meet with your
College & Career Counselor in high school in order to
identify possible areas of interest so that you can chose a
college to attend that has areas of study you are
interested in. It is equally as important to utilize
resources offered by the college in your freshmen and
sophomore years to properly advise you in your search of
a college major.
What about selective service?
All young men must register with Selective Service when
they turn 18 years old. If you do not register, college
financial aid may be withheld.
Register online at www.sss.gov
9
College
Applications
DB Deadlines
1
Student Recommendations
Seniors must provide their counselor and/or teacher with a resume. Counselors will also need a
student information recommendation form before recommendations can be processed. (See
Appendix for forms)
2 Application Deadlines
Teachers and Counselors must have a 10 school
days to complete recommendations. Please follow the deadlines listed on the left side to the teacher/counselor due dates on the right side to insure
recommendations can be completed. Application
fee waivers might be accepted for students receiving
free or reduced lunch. See your counselor for more
information.
3 Early Action or Early Decision
College Application
Deadlines
Due Date To Request
Recommendation
November 1
October 15
November 15
October 31
December 1
November 15
December 15
November 30
January 1
December 7
Students who apply either early action or early decision must request letters of
recommendation prior to October 15!!
4 Student Follow Up
Students are responsible to verify with college admissions that all admissions processing
is complete. Students should notify their counselor via email when admissions activities are
processed so they are fully informed of your status. Students should also keep copies of all
documents, user names and passwords that have been created. This information will be needed
frequently throughout school.
10
College
Applications
The Process
Student submits online college application
August-May



Have someone proofread your application before you submit
Verify the college received your application through confirmation
Request your transcripts to be sent to the college in the Counseling Office
Provide documents to counselor


Counselor recommendation sheet
Student Resume
Provide documents to teacher


Student Resume
Teacher mails or emails recommendation letter directly to the college.
(Provide self-addressed stamped envelope if mailed)
Counselor submits electronic secondary school report via
online or mail hard copy
Registrar mails transcript to college or counselor submits transcript
electronically
Student verifies status of application process
College notifies student of decision
11
College Planning
Checklist
College Admission Testing
DB students have the opportunity to take the ACT college admissions test for free in their junior
year in the spring semester of get a ACT voucher from the Counseling Office and apply to test
for free on a National test date. All students are encouraged to take the ACT at least one time.
Students should check with the college of their choice to verify requirement of the writing
section of the ACT. Some students retake the ACT in order to improve their scores. Colleges
use these scores as part of the award process for scholarships as well as admission. Some
colleges require the SAT college admission test. Students are advised to check with the
schools of their interest to verify which test is required. DB will send ACT/SAT test scores to the
requested institutions along with transcripts; however some colleges require test scores be
sent directly from the testing company. Students should contact ACT and the College Board to
order score reports.
SAT TEST DATES
Register @ www.collegeboard.com
ACT TEST DATES
Register @ www.actstudent.org
TEST DATES
REGISTRATION
September 12, 2015
August 7, 2015
October 9, 2105
October 24, 2015
September 18, 2015
December 5, 2015
November 5, 2015
December 12, 2015
November 6, 2015
January 23, 2016
December 28, 2015
February 6, 2016
January 8, 2016
May 7, 2016
April 8, 2016
April 9, 2016
March 4, 2016
June 4, 2016
May 5, 2016
June 11, 2016
May 6, 2016
TEST DATES
REGISTRATION
October 3, 2015
September 3, 2015
November 7, 2015
DEADLINE
DEADLINE
DB school code for registration #431045
DB test center code : ACT–18484
SAT– 43-155
TOEFL iBT test is used for ESL students to demonstrate their English -Language proficiency. It measures the ability to use and understand English at the university level. It evaluates
how well the student combines their listening, reading, speaking and writing skills to perform academic tests. Colleges will notify a student if the TOEFL is required. Go to http://www.ets.org/
toefl for more information.
12
College Search
How do you determine what college or technical school is the best fit for you? In order to
compare colleges that you would like to attend, a student must identify the important aspects a
school must have in order to identify colleges/technical schools that best meet your needs.
Type, location, size, academic majors, cost, and extracurricular activities are some of the most
important aspects to consider when making a decision as to where to attend.
WEB RESOURCES FOR COLLEGE SEARCH
College for TN
http://collegefortn.org
College Board
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search
College Confidential
http://www.collegeconfidential.com
College Navigator
http://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
College View
http://www.collegeview.com
My College Guide
http://mycollegeguide.org
Peterson’s
http://www.petersons.com/college-search.aspx
Princeton Review
http://www.princetonreview.com/colleges-majors.aspx
KnowHow2Go
http://knowhow2go.acenet.edu/
National Association for College Admission Counseling
http://www.nacacnet.org
WEB RESOURCES FOR SCHOLARSHIP SEARCH
College Board
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/financial-aid
TN Achieves
https://www.tnachieves.org
FASTWEB
http://www.fastweb.com/college-scholarships
ZINCH
http://www.zinch.com/scholarships
TN Student Assistance Corporation
http://www.tn.gov/tsac/
13
Financial Aid
Resources
FAFSA
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
www.fafsa.ed.gov
All students must complete the FAFSA in order to receive any type of financial aid and to
receive the Tennessee Hope Scholarship. Financial aid can include both grant monies (no
repayment) and federal student loan monies (repayment required). The FAFSA should be
completed after January 1st of the year the senior plans to attend school. Students are
encouraged to apply as early as possible since some grants expire once funds are depleted.
Parents will have to estimate income information to complete the FAFSA. Once tax return
information is completed, the FAFSA income estimate be updated online. Students and
parents must register for an account at www.pin.ed.gov and remember their secret pin number
for future use every year when applying for federal student aid. It is advised that students
keep their pin number in a safe place.
*This is a FREE service. Do not ever pay to complete the FAFSA.
Tennessee Hope Scholarship
http://www.tn.gov/collegepays/article/tennessee-hope-scholarship
Requirements:
1. Freshmen must have a minimum of a 21 ACT (980 SAT), exclusive of the essay
and optional subject area battery tests OR overall un-weighted minimum 3.0 GPA
2. Enroll within 16 months following high school graduation
Award:
1. Up to $1,750 for four-year institutions for Freshmen & Sophomores
2. Up to $2,250 for four-year institutions for Junior & Seniors
3. Up to $1,500 for two-year institutions for Freshmen
Toll Free Assistance
Free scholarship help is available to TN residents @ 888-2688732 to contact Outreach TN. US Department of Education
provides information about federal student assistance program
@ 800-433-3242.
14
Financial Aid
Resources
Tennessee Promise
http://tennesseepromise.gov/students.shtml
For more information and to
apply, visit
www.tnpromise.gov
Tennessee Promise offers 2 years of tuition-free
community or Technical college to Tennessee high
school graduates.
1. Apply
By November 2:
2. File
By February 15:
Apply for the Tennessee Promise scholarship at
www.TNPromise.gov. A local partnering organization will contact you to help you complete your
Tennessee Promise requirements.
File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
(FAFSA) on www.fafsa.gov.
Spring 2016:
3. Meet
Meet your college mentor and attend two
mandatory meetings held by your local partnering
organization.
4. Submit
Spring 2016:
Submit a college application and enroll in an
eligible college program.
5. Serve
In the Summer:
Complete your first 8 hours of community service
Toll Free Assistance
Free scholarship help is available to TN residents @ 888-2688732 to contact Outreach TN. US Department of Education
provides information about federal student assistance program
@ 800-433-3242.
15
Financial Aid
Resources
Wilder-Naifeh Technical Skills Grant
http://www.tn.gov/collegepays/article/wilder-naifeh-technical-skills-grant
Students who want to enroll in a Certificate or Degree program at any Tennessee College of
Applied Technology can receive the Wilder-Naifeh Grant. Students must be a Tennessee
resident, be enrolled full-time (part-time prorated) in a TCAT Center and cannot be a prior
recipient of the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship or Wildner-Naifeh Technical Skills Grant.

$2000 award (or no more than the cost of attendance
Need $ for College
To find out what government financial aid you can apply for, and how, go to:
www.studentaid.ed.gov/needmoney
Don’t Get Scammed Searching for Scholarships
Read “Don’t Get Scammed on Your Way to College!”:
www.studentaid.ed.gov/pubs
Questions about Federal Student Aid
If you have questions about the federal student aid program or need assistance with the application process, call 1-800-4-FED-AID (1800-433-3243) or the TTY for the hearing impaired, 1800-730-8913.
Federal Student Loan Information
Learn the basics & manage your debt by going to www.studentaid.ed.gov/repayingpub and
reading the sections “Prepare” and “Receive”.
Federal Income Tax Credits for Education Expenses
Learn how you may benefit from federal income tax credits for education expenses by going to
www.irs.gov and read IRS Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education
16
Students with Disabilities
WEB RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Although students with disabilities are no longer eligible for services under the Individuals with
Disabilities Act, students are protected under Section 504 from discrimination. It is important you know
your rights and learn self-advocacy skills to transition from high school to college. Below are some
resources to help with important information:
Section 504 Your Rights & Responsibilities
FAQs About Section 504 and Post Secondary Education
http://www.pacer.org/publications/adaqa/504.asp
Section 504 Subpart E: Postsecondary Education
http://www.ocean.edu/campus/student_services/drc/asd/mmedia/docs/minfo3.htm
“College Students and Disability Law” by Stephen Thomas
Comprehensive article about Section 504, ADA, qualifying as a ‘person with a disability’, admission, accommodations, and dismissal. Includes guidelines for higher education practitioners; legal references.
http://www.ldonline.org/article/6082
Know Your Rights and Responsibilities
http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/transition.html
Questions and Answers on Disability Discrimination under Section 504 and Title II
http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/qa-disability.html
Policy Statement: Disability Harassment in Colleges (U. S. Department of Education)
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/PolicyDisabilityharassment-2.pdf
Planning & Preparing for College
College Planning for Students with Learning Disabilities
http://www.ldonline.org/article/6130
Getting Ready for College: Advising Students with Learning Disabilities
http://www.ldonline.org/article/6132
College: Continuing and Higher Education for Students with Disabilities - Wrightslaw
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/college.index.htm
Financial Aid Guides and Resources – Wrightslaw
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/fin.aid.index.htm
Steps to College
http://www.nacacnet.org/MemberPortal/News/StepsNewsletter/
***Students should contact the Office of Disability Services at the
college of their choice to find out the required documents needed for
enrollment.
17
Keys to Success
in College
WEB RESOURCES TO HELP BE SUCCESSFUL IN COLLEGE
Keys to Success in College
Study Strategies
http://www.d.umn.edu/student/loon/acad/strat/
Study Skills Guide
http://www.csbsju.edu/academicadvising/helplist.htm
Ten Traps of Studying
http://campushealth.unc.edu/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=470&Itemid=65
Cornell Note Taking System
http://www.clt.cornell.edu/campus/learn/LSC_Resources/cornellsystem.pdf
Self-Advocacy for College Students
http://www.ldonline.org/article/6142
Planning for Successful Transition for All Students
http://www.heath.gwu.edu/node/338
Internship & Service Programs
Vault Career Intelligence
http://www.vault.com/internship-rankings
The Washington Program
http://www.twc.edu/internships
U.S. Department of State
http://careers.state.gov/students/
United We Serve
http://www.serve.gov/
AmeriCorp
http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps
Discovery Internships
http://www.discoveryinternships.com/
Student Athlete Resources
National Collegiate Athletic Association www.ncaa.org
National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics www.naia.org
National Junior College Athletic Association www.njcaa.org
18
Appendix
19
DOBYNS-BENNETT HIGH SCHOOL
PERSONAL DATA SHEET FOR GRADUATING SENIORS
STUDENT’S NAME _______________________________________________________________________
Last
First
Middle
ADDRESS ________________________________________________________________________________
CONTACT NUMBER _________________________________________________________________
A FINAL TRANSCRIPT WILL BE SENT TO ONLY ONE COLLEGE. PLEASE LIST THE COLLEGE YOU PLAN TO ATTEND NEXT FALL.
FINAL TRANSCRIPT TO: _______________________________________________________________________
Name of Institution and Locations
IF YOU NEED A FINAL TRANSCRIPT SENT TO NCAA CHECK HERE __________.
IF YOU HAVE BEEN GRANTED ANY SCHOLARSHIP MONEY OR FINANCIAL AID, PLEASE LIST ALL
MONIES OFFERED. PLEASE DO NOT WRITE IN FULL RIDE, WE MUST HAVE DOLLAR AMOUNT.
SCHOLARSHIPS/FINANCIAL AID
$ AMOUNT/YEAR
# YEARS
LOTTERY MONEY (HOPE SCHOLARSHIP)
IF YOU DO NOT PLAN ON ATTENDING COLLEGE, WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS?
Work ___________________________________
Armed Forces (What Branch?) ___________________
Other (Be Specific) _________________________________________________________________________
IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED RECOGNITION FOR ANY OF THE FOLLOWING, PLEASE CHECK ALL THAT APPLY:
Governor’s School Participant _____
All State Music/Choir/Drama Participant _____ Which one __________
Taken Dual Enrollment/Fast Track Classes __________
NOTE: If any information given above changes or if you receive additional information about scholarships, it is your
responsibility to come to the Counseling Office and make the changes on this sheet. Thank You!
20
SENIOR TRANSCRIPT REQUEST
DATE: ___________________________________
NAME: ___________________________________
PLEASE SEND THE FOLLOWING:
(Check all that apply)
_____
TRANSCRIPT
_____
ALL ACT SCORES
_____
SEND ONLY SCORES FROM THESE DATES
____________________________
_____
ALL SAT SCORES
_____
SEND ONLY SCORES FROM THESE
DATES ____________________________
SEND TO:
_____________________
Signature
21
DB ACCESS PROGRAM
Access College Credits for Every Student’s Success
Dobyns-Bennett offers many college credit opportunities for students while in high school.
Taking college courses in high school helps prepare the student for college, saves money, and
gives the student the confidence of being successful in college. Students can participate in
college credit in three ways at DB – Advanced Placement (AP), Dual Enrollment, Dual Credit or
Credit by Examination.
AP Courses Offered at Dobyns-Bennett High School
Language Arts
AP English Language & Composition
AP English Literature & Composition
Fine Arts
AP Studio Art
AP Music Theory
Math & Computer Science
AP Calculus AB/BC
AP Statistics
AP Computer Science A
Science
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Environmental Science
AP Physics I
AP Physics C: Mechanics
Social Studies
AP European History
AP US History
AP US Government & Politics
AP Human Geography
AP Psychology
AP Macroeconomics
AP World History
World Languages
AP French Language
AP Spanish Language
AP Latin: Vergil
AP German
AP Course Cost: End of Course AP Exam $91
Dual Enrollment Courses Offered at Dobyns-Bennett High School
Northeast State Community College
English Composition I
English Composition II
Statistics
Speech
Tennessee Tech
Principles of Engineering (PLTW)
Tennessee State University
Large Animal Science
Dual Enrollment Grant Program (Tennessee Lottery)
Students may be eligible for the Tennessee Lottery Dual Enrollment Grant. Students must complete an
application online through the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC) within the appropriate time
frame. http://www.tn.gov/collegepays/
Dual Enrollment students may qualify for up to $600 per academic year ($300 per semester). Students must
meet a 3.0 GPA or a 21 composite on ACT. Students must maintain a 2.75 cumulative college GPA to
continue receiving the Dual Enrollment Grant.
Credit by Examination Courses Offered at Dobyns-Bennett High School
Northeast State Community College
Principles of Accounting
Principles of Business
Computer Applications
Sanitation and Safety
Criminal Justice
Business Management
Essentials of Web Design
Engine Analysis
East Tennessee State University
Principles of Accounting I
Business Management
Course Cost: Free
Statewide Dual Credit Courses Offered at Dobyns-Bennett High School
End of course exam is mandatory for all students taking the class. If a student meets or exceeds the
established cut score, the student will earn three credits which can be applied at any public
postsecondary institution in the state.
Sociology
Criminal Justice 1
Greenhouse Management
Pre-Calculus
Course Cost: Free
Tennessee Tech University
Principles of Engineering: PLTW (Project Lead the Way Credit) – ENGR 1210 (1 credit hour) will be awarded
to secondary school students who participate in the “Project Lead the Way” and achieve a minimum grade
70% on the nationalized “Final Exam on Principles of Engineering”. The requesting student will need to have
his/her test score sent to TTU.
Course Cost: Possible fee required
Please refer to the Dobyns-Bennett Course Catalog for enrollment information in
Dobyns-Bennett ACCESS courses.