Announcement from SIU-E Regarding Free Tuition

This message came from the Chancellor at SIU-E...

We know that too often the opportunity to earn a college degree is not realized because students worry about how they will pay tuition. I am also surprised by how many students and families miss available opportunities simply because they do not know about them.

I am proud to share that this year the SIUE Commitment, SIUE’s program to provide free tuition and fees has been expanded to more deserving Illinois residents. Illinois students admitted to SIUE arriving from households with an annual income of $113,575 or less will now have access to free tuition and fees.

All of the Illinois state universities have a similar program. This link will explain the program at each of the universities.  It is worth a moment to see if you qualify.

Registration Presentations

The counselors met during extended homeroom this week with the to-be sophomores, juniors, and seniors
about registration for the 2025-26 school year.  Students are encouraged to discuss their class selections with parents and enter their classes directly into TeacherEase.  The counselors will begin calling the students to the counseling office to discuss those choices when we all return from holiday break. Click below for each presentation. Remember: it is the grade students will be in next year.

Sophomore Presentation

Junior Presentation

Senior Presentation

The Skills Gap: New Opportunities Through Trade Schools

As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow, trade schools are stepping up to fill the gap. These institutions offer specialized training in fields like construction, healthcare, and technology, providing students with the hands-on experience and credentials they need to succeed. With the promise of good wages and job security, trade schools are becoming an increasingly attractive option for those looking to enter the workforce quickly and effectively. This video produced by MTI gives a closer look at that Skills Gap.

ACT Prep at Bradley University

📢 Attention Juniors!

Bradley University will host online ACT Prep Classes from February 4th to March 4th, in preparation for the April test. This is a fantastic opportunity to boost your scores and enhance your college applications. All juniors are strongly encouraged to take advantage of these classes. Don’t miss out on this valuable chance to prepare for your future!

ACT review will be on Tuesday evenings from February 4 - March 4, 2025.

Cost: $99

Click here to register

Click here to purchase ACT book for class

Work based Learning Opportunities for IVC Students

Exciting news! Applications are now available for the Work-Based Learning (WBL) programs in Construction, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), and Emergency Medical Services/Fire Science. These programs offer students hands-on experience and invaluable skills in their chosen fields, preparing them for future careers.

The Construction program allows students to explore the trades, while the CNA program provides essential training for those interested in healthcare. The EMS/Fire Science program is perfect for students passionate about emergency services, offering training in fire safety, emergency medical care, and rescue operations.

These WBL programs not only provide practical experience but also open doors to potential job opportunities and certifications. Interested students should apply as soon as possible to secure their spots. More information can be found by clicking here.

Don't miss this chance to gain real-world experience and jumpstart your career!

Scheduling 101 - Presentation for Parents

The Scheduling 101 presentation at IVC High School provided parents with an overview of the scheduling process. Key points included:

• Sequencing of Classes: Core subjects like English, Math, Science, and Social Studies were discussed, along with academic pathways and prerequisites for advanced courses.
• Graduation Requirements: Detailed information on credit requirements, mandatory courses, and standardized tests needed for graduation was provided.
• Class Schedule Layout: The daily schedule and block scheduling were explained to show how students’ days are structured.
• Electives Offered: A wide variety of electives, special programs like AP courses and Dual Enrollment, and extracurricular opportunities were highlighted.

Parents were encouraged to engage with their children’s academic planning and use school resources to ensure a successful high school experience.

Click here if you would like to
view the PDF of the presentation with speaker notes

New Online Curriculum Guide

Gone is the 60+ page Course Description Book. Time to celebrate!! Everything can be found online using our new Curriculum Guide. It is simple to use and easily accessible. The online Curriculum Guide includes:

--- Breakdown of graduation requirements
--- Descriptions for every course offered
--- Information about all programs offered such as CNA and WBL
--- Links to valuable information about career information.

Click here to check the new guide

Free FAFSA Help From ISAC

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the FAFSA? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) is here to help you navigate the financial aid maze with ease. 💡

Why stress when you can get FREE virtual assistance? ISACorps staff members are ready to guide you through every step of the FAFSA process. Whether you’re stuck on a specific question or need a full walkthrough, they’ve got your back!

How to Book Your Session:

• Visit the ISAC Booking page: www.isac.org/booking
• Choose a convenient time for your one-on-one virtual meeting.
• Get ready to tackle the FAFSA with confidence!

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to secure your financial future. Book your session today and take the first step towards your college dreams! 🌟