In his book, Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey stresses the importance of beginning with the end in mind. He says that this Habit (No. 2) is “based on imagination – the ability to envision in your mind what you cannot at present see with your eyes.” For high school students the end is a high school diploma – and rarely thought about as a freshman, regardless of how hard parents stress the issue. Keeping the end in sight can be helpful when considering post-high school goals, desires, decisions, college and career choices, as well as a student’s final high school transcript. As re-enrollment approaches, consider your student’s last year of high school first. Discuss with them and help them to determine their likes and dislikes, academic strengths, as well as their goals and desires for their future; then choose elective classes accordingly. Granted, there are graduation requirements that may not pique their interest but there are many opportunities to go beyond the required classes in all areas.
Your student’s high school experience is important, vital, and relevant to them. Which classes to take, where to serve Personal Christian Mission hours, mission trip possibilities, athletic participation, leadership involvement, and social events are just a few of many opportunities, choices and decisions facing students daily. At times it may all seem overwhelming, fogging their vision. Keeping the end in sight throughout high school (and college) not only is intentional but will help your student persevere through the overwhelming times, prepare them for the path ahead, and provide them with the skills necessary to pursue their goals and desires after high school.
“Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.” Proverbs 4:25-2
Janet Pargeter, M.Ed., CGP
Guidance Counselor
Email: jpargeter@gracechristianalaska.org
