Academic

Key Changes:

• Grades & courses now count toward graduation requirements.
• Students pick electives & career pathways — exploring interests early.
• Prep starts for ACT, TOPS scholarships, and college/career planning.

Louisiana Requirements:

• Students need credits in specific subjects to graduate (English, Math, Science, Social Studies, PE, electives).
• Schools track progress toward TOPS eligibility (2.5 GPA in core courses, ACT ≥20).

Important Notes:

• Complete course selection forms on time — counselor meetings are critical.
• Check progress toward TOPS scholarship requirements (GPA, core units, ACT scores).
• Attend parent–teacher conferences regularly.

Tips for All Levels in Louisiana Schools:

• Know LEAP test dates – avoid travel during testing.
• Use the parent portal to check grades and attendance.
• Stay in touch with teachers and ask how to support at home.
• For IEP or 504 support, contact the school early.
• Visit louisianabelieves.com for resources and deadlines.

Helping Students Adjust:

• Help them balance homework & activities — time management is critical.
• Talk about long-term goals and how grades affect them.
• Encourage involvement in clubs, sports, or volunteer opportunities.
• Map out graduation pathway: know required credits in English, Math, Science, Social Studies, PE, Foreign Language.
• Support with study skills, time management, attendance.
• Explore extracurricular and dual enrollment options.

Social Emotional

Key Growth Areas:

• Independence: Teens manage schedules, tasks, and choices more on their own.
• Identity: Exploring self, appearance, interests, and peer groups.
• Peer Influence: Pressure to fit in grows, especially around popularity and social media.
• Future Worries: Concerns about college, careers, and life after school.
• Emotional Intensity: Strong feelings with developing regulation skills.

Navigating Change:

• Supportive Relationships: Trusted adults and mentors help teens feel grounded and supported.
• Leadership Opportunities: Participation in clubs, sports, and volunteering builds confidence and skills.
• Guidance with Freedom: Teens need space to make choices, balanced with clear rules and support.
• Emotional Tools: Teach ways to manage stress, make decisions, and communicate effectively.
• Safe to Fail: Encourage learning from mistakes without shame as part of growth.

Helping Students Adjust:

• Create Open Dialogue: Listen to your teen without judgment instead of just giving advice.
• Build Routines: Help them stay organized with planners, regular check-ins, and personalized systems.
• Validate Feelings: Acknowledge that high school can be challenging and it’s okay to struggle.
• Promote Balance: Encourage breaks, fun, and enough sleep—not just focusing on work.
• Reinforce Self-Worth: Celebrate who they are, not just their achievements.
• Stay Involved: Talk regularly with your teen and their teachers to support their journey.