Final Exam Information:

Friday, December 16 (A day)	All A Day Exams
Monday, December 19 (B day)	All regular block and “B” day exams for 1st and 2nd blocks
Tuesday, December 20	All regular block and “B” day exams for 3rd and 4th blocks

See Official Page for Complete Details.

If your Sophomore took the PLAN in November, they received those scores back today during Warrior Period.

Juniors picked up their scores from the Georgia High School Writing Test today during lunch.  Any tests that were not picked up will be given out in Warrior Period on Monday

Global Connections is sponsoring an Art & Essay contest. The theme for this years essay contest is world wide hunger. First place winners will receive an all expenses paid trip to Turkey for ten days. For complete details, please visit www.artessay.org. The deadline for the essay is January 27, 2012.

The USDA/1890 National Scholars Program scholarship is awarded annually and must be used at one of the eighteen 1890 Historically Black Land-Grant Institutions. Each award provides annual tuition, fees, books, room and board and laptop for each academic year. The scholar is required to work in the Student Educational Employment Program during school breaks and agree to one year of service with the U.S. Department of Agriculture for each year of financial support at the completion of the bachelor's degree.  In order to apply, the senior must also have a 3.0 GPA or better and have scored a 1000 on the SAT (math and critical reading); or 21 on the ACT. All application materials must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2012 and sent to the university selected by the applicant to attend.  For more information, electronic applications, etc., please contact Karla Martin at karla.martin@osec.usda.gov or martink@fvsu.edu. Paper applications can also be picked up in the guidance office

The Georgia District Civitan Foundation invites Seniors to apply for the Alice Dodd Scholarship for Outstanding Community Service and the Bobby Dodd Scholarship for Outstanding Community Service (Awarded to a physically challenged student). The first place recipient for each scholarship receives a 41,200 award. Although academics and financial need are important and will be reviewed, the overriding criteria will be the applicant's community service involvement. Applications can be picked up in the guidance office and must be postmarked by January 31, 2012.

 

 

EOCTs will be continue to be given next week during regular class time.  The test schedule is as follows:

December 5 and 6: 9 Lit and Am Lit

December 7 and 8: Physical Science and Biology

December 9 and 12: Econ and US History

A schedule of EOCT reviews can be found at 

http://www.oconeeschools.org/ochs/files/filecabinet/folder4/OCHS_EOCT_Review_Sessions.pdf

It’s Secret Santa time again!  Through the generosity of our community, we are able to help provide holiday gifts for our Oconee County children who are in need.  Donations can be dropped off at the front office from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm each day.  If you would like to adopt a child, please stop by to pick up an ornament off of our tree in the front office.

We have a large number of young children that OCHS is serving this year.  The greatest need in this cluster is for children ages 2-5.  Requests range from clothes and PJs to books and age appropriate toys.  If you are out shopping, please take a minute and consider picking up a toddler gift.   Other welcome gifts for older children would be gently used electronics (such as Nintendo DS2, digital cameras, USB drives, etc.).  We also could always use gently used coats and other warm weather gear.  Please consider picking up a gift and making a child’s (or teen’s) Christmas a little brighter.

Work Based Learning Applications Available now!  All current 10th and 11th graders interested in earning credit through a career-related internship, apprenticeship, or Young Dawgs, please see Mrs. Frutiger to apply for the Work-Based Learning program.  Applications and interviews are now being processed for the 2012-2013 school

 

The National Patriotic Services Committee of the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America is sponsoring a national essay contest. The winners will receive a scholarship to help pay for expenses to attend a Congressional Seminar in Washington, D.C. in June. The approximate stipend value is $1,500. For complete details, please visit www.workshops.org. The deadline to apply is January 12, 2012.

The Honors Program at Columbus State University is seeking a diverse community of highly capable and motivated students who challenge each other in the life-long pursuit of learning. CSU is currently taking applications for Fall 2012 with a deadline of January 31, 2012 for scholarships that total up to $13,200 including a stipend for studying abroad. Minimum requirements include at least a 3.5 GPA and SAT math and verbal test scores that sum to 1200 or above (or 27 on ACT). For more information and for applications for scholarships, please visit www.ColumbusState.edu/Honors.

The goal of The Julian & Jan Hester Memorial Scholarship Fund, presented by the Community Bankers Association of Georgia, is to assist deserving high school seniors in their first year of college and promote community banking. Applications can be picked up in the Guidance Office. Applications and all supporting documents must be turned in to Oconee State Bank by Friday, April 6.

 

EOCTs will be given beginning December 1^st during regular class time.  The test schedule is as follows:

December 1 and 2: Math I and Math II

December 5 and 6: 9 Lit and Am Lit

December 7 and 8: Physical Science and Biology

December 9 and 12: Econ and US History

A schedule of EOCT reviews can be found at http://www.oconeeschools.org/ochs/files/filecabinet/folder4/OCHS_EOCT_Review_Sessions.pdf

It’s Secret Santa time again!  Through the generosity of our community, we are able to help provide holiday gifts for our Oconee County children who are in need.  Donations can be dropped off at the front office from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm each day.  We have a large number of young children that OCHS is serving this year.  The greatest need in this cluster is for children ages 2-5.  Requests range from clothes and PJs to books and age appropriate toys.  If you are out shopping, please take a minute and consider picking up a toddler gift.   Other welcome gifts for older children would be gently used electronics (such as Nintendo DS2, digital cameras, USB drives, etc.).  We also could always use gently used coats and other warm weather gear.  Please consider picking up a gift and making a child’s (or teen’s) Christmas a little brighter.

Walton EMC is offering scholarships in the amount of $4,000 through their "Operation Round Up." In order to apply, you must be a senior whose home is serviced by Walton EMC. Two letters of recommendation, a copy of a college acceptance letter, copy of transcript and a brief outline of answered questions (listed on the application) must be included along with the application. Applications can be picked up in the guidance office and must be submitted to Walton EMC by February 17.

The school system will be closed next Wednesday - Friday, November 23-25, in observance of the Thanksgiving holidays.   End of Course Tests and Pathway Assessments will begin on December 1^st.  Seniors who have completed a Career Pathway this semester will be notified of the date and time of their test.  The EOCT schedule is as follows:

December 1 and 2: Math I and Math II

December 5 and 6: 9 Lit and Am Lit

December 7 and 8: Physical Science and Biology

December 9 and 12: Econ and US History

 If you have visited our webpage, you may have seen a link on the right hand side about “Let’s Talk About It” This is a new program that the school system is implementing.  It is an online anonymous reporting system and will be available for students in grades 4 – 12.  This website will allow students to choose whether to identify themselves or not and to initially communicate with a school counselor, school social worker, or administrator utilizing text messaging or email.   Their login will be the 6 digit PowerSchool number (lunch number) and the password will be their last name.  Once logged in they will need to update their demographics.  Here they can change their password if they wish and register a cell phone

 The reporting website, www.ancomm.com, is a resource for students to report and get help with problems ranging from social, emotional and academic issues to mental health concerns like depression.  Talk About It is meant to be an early intervention tool, which means we want to hear about problems when they are small.  Students sometimes feel like they should be able to handle small problems and do not seek help even though they are not managing the problems well.  Often this is because they do not want to feel embarrassed talking face-to-face with someone about it.  Using a less personal, but very familiar, form of communication will reduce anxiety and tension related to talking face-to-face with someone, making it easier to seek out help.  The school personnel being contacted will be able to reply to the student, creating a running dialogue, even if the student chooses to remain anonymous.

There are circumstances that would necessitate that the school request a student’s identity from Ancomm.  If a student is making threats to themselves, others, or the school we will request their identity in order to intervene as promptly as possible.  Talk About It is not going to replace face-to-face communication.  Rather, it will open another avenue for communication that students are comfortable with.  It is a tool for students to use so that they can seek out help in a manner that is comfortable, convenient, and effective.

 Their login will be the 6 digit PowerSchool number (lunch number) and the password will be their last name.  Once logged in they will need to update their demographics.  Here they can change their password if they wish and register a cell phone

 Walton Electric Membership Corporation is pleased to offer one senior student at OCHS a scholarship opportunity. The scholarship is named in honor of Walter Harrison. Harrison, called "Mr. Rural Electrification" in Georgia, was nationally known for his lifetime efforts to make electricity available to every home and farm in Georgia.  The recipient's primary address must be the household of an EMC member or EMC employee. Applications can be picked up in the guidance office. Along with the application, you must include a two page autobiographical sketch with reference to future plans and goals as well as your involvement in the community. Two letters of recommendation must be included as well. Please return your application and all supporting documents to Mr. Guthas in the guidance office by January 17.

The University of Georgia is announcing the availability of The Goizueta Foundation scholarships. These scholarships will support students with financial need, who are fluent in Spanish and preference will be given to students from Georgia. Students who are interested should visit https://www.admissions.uga.edu/article/spanish for further details and an application. Students who are interested should apply to UGA by December 15, 2011 and complete the FAFSA as soon after January 1st as possible.

If you change phone numbers, please update your student's PowerSchool account.  You can do this by logging into your parent account.  This is extremely important in case there is ever an emergency.

If you want to be kept up to date on what is going on at OCHS, our announcements can be viewed daily from our homepage.

Georgia Gwinnett College will be visiting during all lunches on Monday, November 7th.

 

 

 

 

Attention Parents of Sophomores - Next Friday, November 4 is the final day to sign up for the PLAN.  The PLAN is a pre-ACT test and gives students a good idea of how the ACT differs from the SAT.  This will help when they begin taking college admissions exams their junior year.  The plan will be given the morning of November 9 and the cost is $16.  To sign up, all they need to do is bring their money to Joyce Oliver in the front office.

Attention Parents and Students: OCHS has only two designated drop-off/pick-up locations. One drop off/pick-up location is at the front of the school at the front entrance and the other location is at the rear of the school in the Back Parking Lot by the OCHS Practice Gym. These are the ONLY locations any student drop offs or pick ups should occur.

Increased traffic in our parking lots created by dropping off or picking up, increases the possibility of accidents and presents a safety hazard to our students who are trying to master driving and parking and who are relatively inexperienced drivers. Please help us keep our students safe and our campus accident free!

FREE Teen Driving Safety Parent Seminar Presented by Open Road Driving Services -  Wednesday, November 2, 6-7:30pm @ North Oconee High School Fine Arts Auditorium

Car crashes—the #1 killer of teens—take about 3,000 young lives every year. That's 8 teen deaths each day that can be prevented. The good news is that you can make a difference!   Take advantage of this opportunity get involved with your teen's driving. Attend this free parent seminar to learn the steps you can take to keep you teen safe on the road.  Our special guest speaker is Alan Brown, Author of Joshua’s Law and Founder of the Joshua Brown Foundation

Register online at http://www.georgiaopenroad.com/driver-training  or call us at 770.725.2511 to reserve your spot today!

NOTE: All registered attendees will receive a 15% discount coupon for upcoming Open Road Services driver’s education or defensive driving courses.

KFC Colonel's Scholars is looking for high school seniors with financial need and an entrepreneurial spirit to qualify for the KFC Colonel's Scholar Program. Awards are up to $20,000 for tuition, fees, textbooks, room and board. To qualify, graduating high school seniors must:

- Earn a minimum high school cumulative GPA of a 2.75

-Enroll in a public college or university within their state

-Be a U.S. citizen

-Demonstrate financial need

Online applications are accepted from December 1 - February 8 at www.kfcscholars.org.

The Savannah College of Art and Design is hosting a Scholarship Competition through which high school students have the opportunity to exhibit their work in an international forum and be awarded scholarships. Learn more about these opportunities at scad.edu/scadchallenge.

SCAD has also announced the 2011-2012 dates for SCAD Days. At these events, students and their families can tour SCAD buildings, meet faculty, discuss financial aid and participate in workshops. Register at scad.edu/scadday.

The dates are as follows:

SCAD Day Savannah: November 12, 2011 and Feb 18, 2012

SCAD Day Atlanta: Oct 29, 2011 and January 28,2012

FOOD FOR THOUGHT  - OARC’s Family Dining Day is October 26, 2011. For participating restaurants visit our website: www.oconeeconnection.org.  Currently the following restaurants are participating: Baberitos, Chef Ming’s, Chop & Hops, Chicken Express, Dairy Queen, Dickey’s, Fox’s Pizza, Girasoles, Jersey Mike’s Subs, La Parilla, Mirkos, Piccolo’s, Your Pie and  Zaxby’s at Butler Crossing. Take your family out to dinner on October 26 and you will be helping Oconee County’s school children. Participating restaurants are donating a percentage of their proceeds to support the Oconee County Mentor Program.

Univision 34's Liga de Campeones Scholarship is designed to motivate Latino youth to pursue higher education. Students must be seniors who are bilingual (English/Spanish) and have at least a 3.0 GPA. Applicants must also be of Hispanic descent. Applications can be picked up in the guidance office and must be turned in with all other required information by February 28, 2012.

The Athens Area Human Relations Council, Inc. will be selecting senior students to receive scholarships at their annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Banquet in January. Applications for this scholarship can be picked up in the guidance office. Along with the application and supporting documents, you must also participate in at least one Athens Area Human Relations Council, Inc. Community Service Project between January 2012 and August 2012. Applications must be posmarked by November 12, 2011.

Oconee County voters need to be aware that on Nov. 8 will be the vote on the renewal for ELOST or E-SPLOST.  Please read about the information of the ELOST renewal.

Picture Retakes -Mark your calendar! Underclassman will have retakes the day we return from fall break. They will be taken first and second period in the commons area. We need all these photos for this year's terrific yearbook!!!!

FREE Teen Driving Safety Parent Seminar Presented by Open Road Driving Services -  Wednesday, November 2, 6-7:30pm @ North Oconee High School Fine Arts Auditorium

Car crashes—the #1 killer of teens—take about 3,000 young lives every year. That's 8 teen deaths each day that can be prevented. The good news is that you can make a difference!   Take advantage of this opportunity get involved with your teen's driving. Attend this free parent seminar to learn the steps you can take to keep you teen safe on the road.  Our special guest speaker is Alan Brown, Author of Joshua’s Law and Founder of the Joshua Brown Foundation

Open Road Services will also discuss courses available for inexperienced drivers, insurance and discount qualifications, and provide a driving simulation demonstration. Open Road services uses Drive Square technology to provide additional training covering the dangers of texting, cell phone use, and impairment while driving. Simulation provides an opportunity for students to experience how these dangerous situations will affect their driving.

Register online at http://www.georgiaopenroad.com/driver-training  or call us at 770.725.2511 to reserve your spot today!

NOTE: All registered attendees will receive a 15% discount coupon for upcoming Open Road Services driver’s education or defensive driving courses.

The President's Scholarship Competition for Georgia College and State University provides an opportunity for high-achieving high school seniors from across the country to compete for Georgia College’s most prestigious scholarships. The PSC awards scholarships to incoming first-year students with superior academic accomplishments.  These are among the most prestigious – and competitive – awards offered to freshmen.

• $24,000 Trustee Scholarships ($6,000 per year)


• $16,000 Presidential Scholarships ($4,000 per year)


• $12,000 Vera L. Vincent Scholarship for liberal arts and sciences study ($3,000 per year)


• And several other scholarships to be offered to top competitors

Each year, approximately 50 students come to the Georgia College campus for the day-long scholarship competition. Students will interview with faculty, interact with current students, participate in a classroom experience and explore the beautiful campus.

To Be Considered for the President's Scholarship Competition, you must:

• Apply for admission to Georgia College prior to the competition.


• Have a minimum SAT score of 1250 (combined Critical Reading and Math) or an ACT Composite Score of 28.


• Submit a letter or recommendation from a teacher or school counselor (this may be submitted with your application for admission).


• Submit a resume of activities, awards, leadership roles, etc.  (this may be submitted with your application for admission).


• Submit a President's Scholarship Competition (PSC) Interest Form.


• Participate in the entire day-long competition on Friday, December 2, 2011.


• Once a student has submitted all required materials, the reviewing committee will select a limited number of students to attend the completion.

 

All students in grades 9-12 are invited to participate in the Christopher Columbus Essay Contest. The topic is “Christopher Columbus: in his own time, in history, and today”. On the local level, one essay is selected from among the division winners to enter the state level competition where an essay will be chosen to enter the national contest. At the national level, the first place winner will receive $1,200. Please see Mr. Guthas in the guidance office if you are interested in participating.  The chapter deadline for this essay contest is November 30, 2011 at the end of the school day. 

National Leadership Challenge (NLC) Weekend will occur November 11-13, 2011 at North Georgia College & State University in Dahlonega, GA.

If you have a student who is a junior or senior who are interested in Army ROTC programs in college, West Point, or commissioning as Army lieutenants after college, please consider NLC.  NLC is designed to give your students a first-hand experience in what it's like to be a Cadet at North Georgia - one of the top Army ROTC programs in the nation, and the only senior military college in Georgia.  Detailed information, a video, and registration instructions are on line at:  www.northgeorgia.edu/nlcweekend

Last Chance!  Monday, October 3rd is the last chance for Juniors to sign up to take the PSAT on October 12.  The cost is $16 and they can sign up in the guidance office. 

Don't forget that students are out of school on October 13 and 14.

Our school nurse can only dispense medication to students that is provided by the student's parents to the school with a completed medication form.  Information about the Oconee County School system's policy can be found on page 20 of the OCHS student handbook which can be found here.  Copies of the medication forms can be found here.

Our recent issues between Powerschool and GAcollege411 have been resolved!  All OCHS Students have an account on www.gacollege411.org.  For most students their username is their lunch number followed by their last name in lowercase letters.  If they still cannot login, please have them stop by the guidance office to have their password reset.  Once they log in, they can check their HOPE GPA, research colleges and careers and apply to college.  Seniors may also use the site to request free transcripts to be sent electronically to in-state schools.

If you are the parent of a Junior who intends to take the SAT this year, the best practice and feedback to prepare them for the test can be gotten by retaking the PSAT.  Not only will they get back a score, they will also get access to an online customized study guide to prepare them for the SAT.  Students can sign up with Joyce Oliver in the front office and the cost is $16.  Monday, October 3rd is the last day for Juniors to sign up to take the PSAT.

Jefferson Scholarships to the University of Virginia are granted to individuals on the basis of merit alone and are full scholarships to the University. OCHS can nominate one senior to be in the overall running for this scholarship. The senior must have an outstanding academic record and should be in the top of the class. Successful candidates have demonstrated uncommon academic abilities, exceptional leadership talents and an understanding of the broader community around them. The Jefferson Scholars Foundation seeks to identify the most highly talented students in the world. Please visit www.jeffersonscholars.org for complete details. Please see your counselor if you are interested in being nominated by October 7.

The Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE) is pleased to announce its fourth annual "Freedom in Academia" student essay contest. High school seniors from across the U.S. are invited to write an in-depth essay explaining why free speech and First Amendment rights are crucial to higher education and how abuses of these rights harm the college experience. For complete details, please visit www.thefire.org/contests.

High school seniors can enter for a chance to win a $1,000 scholarship to college through the SunTrust Off To College Sweepstakes. For complete details, visit offtocollege.info

Duke University will be hosting an admissions information session on Sunday, October 9 at Walton High School in Marietta.  All interested students are welcome to attend.

Don’t forget to attend the PROBE College Fair with your student on Tuesday, September 20 from 6:00-8:30 at the Classic Center in downtown Athens.  There will be over 100 colleges from Georgia and the Southeast represented.  This is a wonderful opportunity for Freshmen and Sophomores to see the variety of post-secondary options they have.  For Juniors and Seniors, PROBE is a chance to start narrowing down what they are really looking for in a college.

If you are the parent of a Junior who intends to take the SAT this year, the best practice and feedback to prepare them for the test can be gotten by retaking the PSAT.  Not only will they get back a score, they will also get access to an online customized study guide to prepare them for the SAT.  Students can sign up with Joyce Oliver in the front office and the cost is $16.

Emory Scholars awards are renewable for four years of undergraduate study to Emory University, provided the recipients maintain high standards of personal and academic excellence. Distinguished faculty serve as program directors and advisers.

The Emory Goizueta Scholars Program is for students in their last year of high school who have demonstrated not only outstanding academic achievement and strong ethical character, but also a sustained interest in business and propensity to create significant positive changes in organizations.

For complete details on both of these prestigious awards, please visit www.emory.edu/admission/scholars. Only serious students who meet the criteria should apply. All nomination and application materials to be completed and submitted by November 15.  Please see Mr. Guthas in the guidance office if you are interested in being nominated.

The University of Georgia is pleased to announce that the newest undergraduate engineering degree programs in Biochemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Computer Systems Engineering are now fully underway.

More can be learned about these programs by visiting www.engineering.uga.edu and www.engr.uga.edu. For more information and to schedule a tour of the UGA engineering facilities, please contact Sid Thompson, Professor of Engineering and Program Coordinator, at 866-775-1220 or by email at sidt@engr.uga.edu .

Gainesville State College is announcing Fall Open House for both the Gainesville and Oconee campuses. The Gainesville Open House will be on Saturday, October 15 beginning at 9:00 AM at the Continuing Education Center. The Oconee campus event will be on Saturday, October 22 beginning at 9:00 AM at the Student Resource Center. This will be a time to take a tour of the campus and find out more about the academic majors offered. Admissions and Financial Aid representatives will be on hand as well. To register, please visit www.gsc.edu or call the Admissions Office at (678) 717-3641.

Prudential Spirit of Community Award  - If you've made a difference through volunteering over the past year, you could win $1,000 and a trip to Washington D.C. by applying for a Prudential Spirit of Community Award. These awards are sponsored by Prudential Financial and the National Association of Secondary School Principals. This is open to all students.

To apply, visit http://spirit.prudential.com or www.nassp.org/spirit and click on the "Apply Now" link and follow the onscreen instructions. Once you have completed the online application, go to "Certification" page to either email certification instructions to your certifier, or print them out and hand deliver them. The certifier must be your school principal, head of local 4-H, Girl Scout Council, American Red Cross chapter, YMCA, or affiliate of a HandsOn Network. Everything must be completed by November 1.



To the parents of OCHS Seniors......

Yearbook staff needs your help! Senior ads, baby pictures and quotes are due by Friday, September 9th. To insure your child has a special place in this year's yearbook print and complete this form and have it delivered to K14, Ms. Burger's room. Please make sure all pictures are properly indentified and numbered. Checks should be made out to OCHS Yearbook.

Thank You, Yearbook Staff

After Prom Meeting!

The first After Prom 2012 Planning Committee meeting will be next Tuesday, September 6th, at 7:00pm in the OCHS Cafeteria.  Any parent of an OCHS or NOHS student is encouraged to attend if they have an interest in helping with any of the sub-committees for After Prom 2012.  Please e-mail questions or suggestions to:  oconeeafterprom2012@gmail.com.

Don't miss out on this chance to provide a memorable, safe and fun Prom night for your students!!

Open House is Thursday, September 1 from 5:30-7:30pm.  During this time we will run two mini rotations of our schedule.  We will follow the schedule below:

SESSION ONE

5:30 - 5:40               1^st  Block

5:41- 5:44                Class Change

5:44- 5:54                2^nd Block

5:55 - 5:58               Class Change

5:58 - 6:02               Warrior Period

6:02 - 6:05               Class Change

6:06 - 6:16               3^rd Block

6:17 - 6:20               Class Change

6:20 - 6:30               4^th Block

SESSION TWO

6:30- 6:40                1^st  Block

6:41- 6:44                Class Change

6:44 - 6:54               2^nd Block

6:55 - 6:58               Class Change

6:58 - 7:02               Warrior Period

7:02 - 7:05               Class Change

7:06 - 7:16               3^rd Block

7:17 - 7:20               Class Change

7:20 - 7:30               4^th Block

Clarification about the HOPE Scholarship:  If you attended the presentation on HOPE last Tuesday at NOHS, the representative said that no AP Courses were weighted in figuring the HOPE GPA.  Since that time, we have received an email retraction from the GSFC representative that AP courses are still being weighted in the same manner that they have been in the past and no change has taken place.

College Fall Visitation Days

Valdosta State visitation days are for all university bound high school juniors, seniors and their parents. No reservations are required and lunch is provided. The days are as follows:  Saturday, Nov. 12, Saturday, Feb. 4 and Saturday, March 24. Each visitation day begins at 10:00 AM at the Physical Education Complex

Mississippi State University is offering two Fall Preview Day events for students to choose from. This event is geared towards juniors and seniors and will be held on Oct 10 and 24. Space is limited and the cost is $10.00 per person. Please contact events@saffairs.msstate.edu to register

Scholarship Opportunities

Mercer University School of Engineering - The Mercer University School of Engineering is pleased to accept senior nominations from OCHS to participate in a Scholarship Challenge at the Macon, GA campus on Saturday, Oct 8. In addition to the challenge (a test), there will be a parents program and campus tour. For more details and questions about the program, you may contact Dr. Aaron Collins at (478) 301-2097. You can learn more about the Mercer engineering program at www.mercer.edu/admissions . Please see Mr. Guthas in the guidance office if you are interested in being nominated to attend this event.

QuestBridge is pleased to announce the launch of the 2011 National College Match program, which helps outstanding low-income students gain admission and full four year scholarships to leading colleges. Applicants should have demonstrated academic excellence and come from households earnling less than $60,000 per year for a typical family of four. Please visit www.questbridge.org for further details. The "Refer a Student" form can be found at www.questbridge.org/refer-a-student . The National College Match application is available on the website and is due on September 30.

Parent Nights

Freshman Parent Night will be held on Monday, August 29th at 6:00pm at the Oconee County Civic Center.  We will be discussing the transition to high school, graduation and testing requirements and the recent changes to the HOPE scholarship.  Hope to see you there

Sophomores Parent Night will be held on Monday, August 29th at 7:30 pm at the Oconee County Civic Center.  We will be discussing the changes in the High School Graduation test and the new HOPE regulations.  Hope to see you there!

Open House

Open house will be next Thursday, September 1^st from 5:30-7:30pm.  We will run two back to back mini rotations of our schedule, one from 5:30-6:30 and one from 6:30-7:30.  Check the school’s webpage next week for a more detailed Open House schedule.

HOPE Scholarship Changes

Check out this presentation for a detailed explanation of the changes to the HOPE Scholarship Program

YOUTH LEADERSHIP OCONEE - All current 10th and 11th grade students who want to further develop their leadership skills in the community and school should apply for Oconee Youth Leadership. Applications and more information can be found in the guidance office or at www.oconeechamber.org. The deadline to apply is September 12 and must be turned in to the Oconee Chamber of Commerce.  This is an excellent opportunity for both students with previous leadership experience as well as students who want to get into leadership positions.

Upcoming Parent Nights

UPCOMING PARENT NIGHTS – each program will discuss issues relevant to that grade level, planning for post-secondary schools, and an update on the changes that have taken place to the HOPE scholarship program.  We look forward to seeing you there!  All Parent Nights are at the Oconee County Civic Center.

Senior Parent Night is Monday, August 22 at 6:00pm

Junior Parent Night is Monday, August 22 at 7:30pm

Sophomore Parent Night is Monday, August 29 at 7:30 pm

Freshmen Parent Night is Monday, August 29 at 6:00

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HOPE SCHOLARSHIP AND APPLYING TO COLLEGE?  On August 23rd at 6 pm in the NOHS Fine Arts Auditorium, North Oconee and Oconee County High Schools' Guidance Departments will sponsor a college panel discussion.  Representatives from military, four-year, two-year, and technical colleges will be here to talk about the latest trends in college admissions.  These representatives will identify the most common mistakes that they see applicants make and tell both students and parents how to avoid them. 

On August 23rd at about 6:45 pm in the NOHS Fine Arts Auditorium, representatives from the Georgia Student Finance Commission will be with us to guide us through the sometimes murky waters of HOPE eligibility.  As we always say about HOPE issues, "what you don't know can kill you."  Pardon the drama of this last statement, but in dealing with parents who find out that their student is not HOPE eligible in the senior year, this statement is pretty accurate.  If you will arm yourself with dependable information and learn how to check your student's HOPE GPA on www.gacollege411.org, you can avoid moments like this.

Welcome back!!

Welcome back to another year at OCHS!

STUDENT INFORMATION (Demographics, Emergency Contacts and Transportation) Should be updated online this year by AUGUST 26, 2011.  If you DO NOT have your Parent Account set up or if you are having trouble creating a PowerSchool account, contact the front office.  No Parent Account Information Sheet will be given to students.  Parents must come in to pick up this information and provide ID.  This will insure we can contact you if there is an emergency involving your student.

UPCOMING PARENT NIGHTS – each program will discuss issues relevant to that grade level, planning for post-secondary schools, and an update on the changes that have taken place to the HOPE scholarship program.  We look forward to seeing you there!

Senior Parent Night is Monday, August 22 at 6:00pm

Junior Parent Night is Monday, August 22 at 7:30pm

Sophomore Parent Night is Monday, August 29 at 7:30 pm

Freshmen Parent Night is Monday, August 29 at 6:00

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HOPE SCHOLARSHIP AND APPLYING TO COLLEGE?  On August 23rd at 6 pm in the Fine Arts Auditorium, North Oconee and Oconee County High Schools' Guidance Departments will sponsor a college panel discussion.  Representatives from military, four-year, two-year, and technical colleges will be here to talk about the latest trends in college admissions.  These representatives will identify the most common mistakes that they see applicants make and tell both students and parents how to avoid them. 

On August 23rd at about 6:45 pm in the Fine Arts Auditorium, representatives from the Georgia Student Finance Commission will be with us to guide us through the sometimes murky waters of HOPE eligibility.  As we always say about HOPE issues, "what you don't know can kill you."  Pardon the drama of this last statement, but in dealing with parents who find out that their student is not HOPE eligible in the senior year, this statement is pretty accurate.  If you will arm yourself with dependable information and learn how to check your student's HOPE GPA on www.gacollege411.org, you can avoid moments like this.

YOUTH LEADERSHIP OCONEE - All current 10th and 11th grade students who want to further develop their leadership skills in the community and school should apply for Oconee Youth Leadership. Applications and more information can be found in the guidance office or at www.oconeechamber.org. The deadline to apply is September 12 and must be turned in to the Oconee Chamber of Commerce.

Volunteers needed!!  A message from our AfterProm committee:

We still need this many volunteers for After Prom this Saturday night!  We are in dire need of help to make it a safe chaperoned event.  Volunteers are essential!  Please pass on to freshman, sophomore, junior and senior parents.  EVERYONE is needed!

Pre-event work on Saturday: 11 volunteers …. About 30 more needed

1st shift:    48 volunteers are signed up …. more than 50 are needed

2nd shift:  10 volunteers are signed up ….. more than 50 are needed

You can sign up at https://spreadsheets.google.com/a/oconeeschools.org/viewform?hl=en&formkey=dDZmTjlwbGtvZENxMU5ZNUZna1R4UUE6MQ#gid=0

UGA College of Pharmacy Summer Science Academy

The UGA College of Pharmacy is pleased to announce the Pharmacy Summer Science Academy to be held June 5 - June 11. The second cohort will consist of rising high school juniors and seniors who have a strong interest in science and pharmacy. Applications can be picked up in the guidance office and are due May 6, 2011.

New Scholarship

The Georgia Engineering Foundation awards college scholarships to worthy Georgia students who are preparing for a career in engineering or engineering technology.  In 2010, GEF was able to support more than 40 scholarship awards, and we are asking you to assist in communicating this opportunity to your qualified seniors.  Qualified students can visit our website at www.GEFinc.org for information and an application.        

All scholarships are competitively awarded based on the student’s demonstrated competence in mathematics, science and communication skills, the student’s interest in a career in engineering, financial need, and their school and community involvement.  To apply, a student must be: 1) a U.S. Citizen; 2) a resident of Georgia; and 3) enrolled in an engineering or engineering technology ABET-accredited program leading to a 4-year degree as of September 2011.  Applicants include “incoming” college freshmen that plan to attend ABET accredited programs in 2011.  Information regarding ABET accredited programs may be found at http://www.abet.org.  Other criteria may apply for some of the specific scholarships.

Spring Break!

Students are out of school April 1-8. April 1^st is a furlough day and the building will be closed.  Students return to school on April 11.

Interested in earning college credit while in high school?  Check out the following links

College Credit now video

College Credit now information

Move on When Ready Information

Prom is April 16.  Tickets for both Prom and After Prom will be available the week after spring break.  Please go to the Prom/AfterProm website for more information.  Interested in helping?  Volunteers and donations are still needed for AfterProm – check the website for more details!

Senior Graduation and End-of the-Year information

Over the break you should receive in the mail a calendar with all the important upcoming senior events.  This information can also be found on the OCHS website.

Progress  Reports were given out today in Warrior Period

Prom and AfterProm are coming!!

For more information  about Prom, AfterProm, volunteering and donations, please see the Prom/AfterProm website

Attention Parents: Please refer to the medication policies in the student handbook. Parents are to bring in medication for their children. The clinic will store them but does not provide the medication.

UGA is hosting a Science and Math Academy from June 6-June 24. The hours will be 8:30-12:00 noon. This program is for college-bound high school students interested in math, science, technology, engineering or related careers. Students will engage in a variety of mathematics and science activities facilitated by UGA faculty.

Rising high school juniors and seniors should complete an application and submit to their math or science teacher for a recommendation into the program. There are no admission fees, but students are responsible for meals and transportation. Applications and the teacher recommendation forms can be picked up in the guidance office. For more information, please contact Cory Buxton (buxton@uga.edu) or Doug Griffin (doug1115@uga.edu).

New Scholarships

This year, Merck Respiratory will again sponsor the Will to Win Scholarship Program for high school seniors with asthma who are pursuing higher education.  This nationwide scholarship recognizes high school seniors who are disciplined, outstanding, determined and successful in managing their asthma. College bound seniors with asthma who have achieved a level of excellence in one of the following are encouraged to apply: performing arts, visual arts, community service, athletics or science. Applicants must also hold a minimum 3.5 GPA and have received at least one award related to their entry category.  Please see Mr. Guthas for an application. All applications must be received by Merck Respiratory by April 30.

The Athens Area Retired Educators Association annually awards a monetary scholarship to an Oconee County public high school graduating senior. The intent of the award is to assist the recipient in pursuit of his/her post-secondary goals. Seniors are encouraged to apply for this scholarship. In order to apply, please have an administrator, counselor or teacher write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. The recommendation should address your personal qualities, school activities, community service, GPA and work experience (if applicable). Please turn in all recommendations to the guidance office by Tuesday, April 12 to be considered.

Graduation tests for juniors are next week!

• English: Monday, March 21


• Math: Tuesday, March 22


• Science: Wednesday, March 23


• Social Studies: Thursday, March 24

As with any high stakes testing, please make sure your junior gets plenty of sleep, eats breakfast, and is hydrated during this week.

Air Force Academy and Air Force ROTC - Each spring, the sponsor a “USAFA and ROTC Scholarship and Career Planning Seminar” sponsored by the Georgia Air Force Admissions Liaison Officers.

This seminar takes place at Georgia Tech and targets high school freshman, sophomores, and junior students interested in attending the Air Force Academy or seeking ROTC scholarship opportunities.  Attendees will be provided with all the information necessary to compete for scholarships, and hear first hand accounts from Air Force Academy and ROTC Cadets.  This is a great forum for students, parents, and counselors to learn more about the great scholarship opportunities available through the Air Force.

This year’s seminar will take place Sunday March 27^st, 2011 from 2-3:30pm at the Georgia Tech Air Force ROTC Detachment 165.  Questions can be directed to Major Will Trinquero USAFR/ALO Trinquero@bellsouth.net

New Scholarships

Georgia Electronic Life Safety & Systems Association - Senior students who have a father, mother or natural guardian who is a full-time paid member of the police or sheriff's department or fire department may be interested in applying for the Georgia Electronic Life Safety & Systems Association scholarship. Children of administrative staff do not qualify. Each student must complete a fully completed and signed application with a postmark date of April 15 to be considered. Applications can be picked up in the guidance office.

QuestBridge's College Prep Scholarship provides awards that equip high-achieving low-income students to compete for admission to leading colleges. Full scholarships to college summer programs at Emory, Harvard, Stanford, Notre Dame, Penn or Yale are awarded. If you are a junior who has a strong academic record and an annual household income of less than $60,000, we encourage to apply. Apply online for free at www.questbridge.org . The application deadline is March 29, 2011.

Last week of reviews before the GHSGT for Juniors!

• English: Monday, March 21


• Math: Tuesday, March 22


• Science: Wednesday, March 23


• Social Studies: Thursday, March 24

Study sessions will be offered starting February 22 through March 22 (see schedule linked below).

Food and drinks will be provided at each session! Each time you attend a study session, your name will be placed in a drawing for weekly prizes (gift certificates, Warrior Spirit items, etc.). The more times you attend, the more times your name is added.

During the week of the GHSGT, we will draw from all names for a big prize!!

Want to do some additional studying at home? Try the other links!

• Schedule of Review Sessions


• Mathematics Study Guide from DOE website


• Science Study Guide from DOE website


• Social Studies Study Guide from DOE website


• Language Arts Study Guide from DOE website


• Georgia Virtual School website

Georgia's statewide Youth Leadership Program is for students in grades 10-12 who are interested in Latino culture. Interested students must demonstrate leadership capabilities and have a commitment of serve in the community. The summer session runs from July 10-15. There is no cost to the participant. Applications for the program and more information can be found at www.fanning.uga.edu/work/sinlimites.html . The application deadline is April 15.

Please Remember that Monday, March 14^th is a regular school day, not a student holiday.

The state graduation tests for all juniors are right around the corner!

• English: Monday, March 21


• Math: Tuesday, March 22


• Science: Wednesday, March 23


• Social Studies: Thursday, March 24

Study sessions will be offered starting February 22 through March 22 (see schedule linked below).

Food and drinks will be provided at each session! Each time you attend a study session, your name will be placed in a drawing for weekly prizes (gift certificates, Warrior Spirit items, etc.). The more times you attend, the more times your name is added.

During the week of the GHSGT, we will draw from all names for a big prize!!

Want to do some additional studying at home? Try the other links!

• Schedule of Review Sessions


• Mathematics Study Guide from DOE website


• Science Study Guide from DOE website


• Social Studies Study Guide from DOE website


• Language Arts Study Guide from DOE website


• Georgia Virtual School website

 AfterProm

The next meeting of the After Prom Committee is Tues. March 15 and 29 at 6 p.m. in the NOHS Media Center. All parents interested in helping should plan to attend this meeting. If you have any questions, please contact Melissa Lord at 706-310-0271 or at lordmom7@bellsouth.net.

UGA Summer Reading Program - This summer, the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education is offering reading skills and speed reading programs for students and adults. Students in these programs make substantial gains in comprehension while doubling speed reading. They may also learn the best way to read textbooks, take notes and study for tests. For students entering grades 9-11, the program will run from June 6 - July 11 from 4:00-6:30 PM. For rising seniors, the time is from 7:00 - 9:30 PM on the same dates. For more information and to register, please call (800) 978-9596.

Academy Day - United States Senator Johnny Isakson is hosting the annual statewide Academy Day event to familiarize students with the application and nomination process of entering the U.S. military academies. The event will take place on Saturday, May 7 from 10:00-11:30 AM at Dobbins Air Reserve Base. Representatives from all five academies will be in attendance to answer any questions. The event is open to all students. All attendees must present photo ID for admittance and make a reservation due to security restrictions. All persons who are interested in attending must make a reservation to Academy Director, Nancy Brooks at (770) 661-0999 or register online at https://isakson.senate.gov by April 29 at 5:00 PM.

Center College Junior Fellow - Juniors who rank in the top 5% of the class and are interesting in attending Centre College should apply to be a Centre Fellow. You must also have a SAT score of 1250 or higher on the Critical Reading & Math sections or an ACT composite score of 26 or higher. For more information on Centre College, please visit http://www.centre.edu . Nominations are due by May 1.

New Scholarships –

$1,000 scholarships are available to senior students through the Moore's Ford Memorial Scholarships. The scholarships will be awarded at the twelfth annual Moore's Ford banquet in late April. The scholarships commemorate two African American couples, the Dorseys and Malcoms, who were killed in 1946 at the Moore's Ford Bridge. The scholarships are designed to honor and encourage students who are interested in public and community service, social justice and racial healing.   Applications can be picked up in the Guidance Office and must be postmarked by March 31. Two letters of recommendation, a transcript and an essay are a part of the application.

Applications are now being accepted for the Athens Technical College High School Merit Based Scholarship.  For 2011-2012, these schools are Madison County, North Oconee County, Oconee County, Oglethorpe County, Monroe, Loganville, and Walton Career Academy.  The scholarship will pay the equivalent rate of the cost of tuition and fees for up to two terms of full time enrollment at Athens Technical College.  The maximum amount of the scholarship is currently $2,043.  The scholarship will be awarded to an academically outstanding student with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0.  The application for the scholarship is enclosed and it states the guidelines and requirements for consideration. Please duplicate the application as needed.   Application materials may also be picked up from the Financial Aid Office in Room H-700 on the Athens campus, from Linda Downer in Room 112 on the Elbert County campus, from Tonya Coile in Room 101 on the Greene County campus, from Dominic Malcom on the Walton County campus or downloaded from our ATC Foundation website at http://www.athenstech.edu/Foundation/documents/High%20School%20Merit-Based%20Scholarship%20Application.pdf.  Applicants are responsible for submitting a complete application package to the Financial Aid Office by April 6, 2011 at 4:00 PM.  The recipients will be announced in May of 2011.  Please encourage any qualified students to pick up and complete an application packet as soon as possible.

QuestBridge's 2011 Scholarship Program provides more than 1,000 awards that equip outstanding low-income high school juniors with the knowledge to compete for admission to leading colleges. The online scholarship application is free of charge and is due March 29, 2011. Please visit www.questbridge.org for more details.

Below are the updated dates for progress reports and report cards because of the school closings earlier this semester:

• Progress Reports - February 18


• End 1st Nine Weeks - March 15


• Report Cards - March 25


• Progress Reports - April 22

Parents of Juniors – OCHS will be offering test prep sessions after school over the next month to assist students in preparing for the Georgia High School Graduation Test.  Details will be posted on the blog and school website soon!

Boston University offers many summer programs for high school students. Please visit bu.edu/summer/highschool for more information about these programs.

Georgia State University's College of Health and Human Sciences is hosting an open house and information session on Friday, February 25 from 10:00-1:00 PM. Registration begins at 9:30 AM. Please RSVP to chhs@gsu.edu .

Need Help filling out Financial Aid paperwork?

The Georgia Student Finance Commission is hosting College Goal Sunday on February 20 at 2:00 PM. This event will take place at the Zell Miller Learning Center on the UGA campus. The address is 48 Baxter Street, Athens, GA 30602. This will be a great time to learn about applying for Financial Aid through the FAFSA and the HOPE Scholarship.

New Scholarships

The Buick Achievers Scholarship Program is offering several scholarships renewable for up to four years. Please visit www.buickachievers.com for more information. The application deadline is March 31, 2011.

Alpha Iota Delta of Chi Psi Fraternity is proud to announce the Bethel Scholarship to GA Tech. A scholarship of $1,000 will be offered to a qualified young man entering Georgia Tech in the fall. The written application, accompanied by an official transcript, must be postmarked no later than April 15, 2011. Applications may be picked up in the guidance office.

Senior students who have a minimum GPA of a 3.0 and demonstrate financial need are invited to apply for the Everett Williams Scholarship Fund. Applications can be picked up in the Guidance Office and must be postmarked no later than April 15.

GA Farm Bureau is pleased to announce the 2011 agriculture scholarship program. Scholarships will be awarded to the top ten students who confirm they are majoring in agriculture or a related field who meet all qualifications. The top three students will each receive a one-time scholarship of $3,000. The completed application must be returned to the GA Farm Bureau Field Services office no later than Friday, Feb 25. Applications can be obtained from the web site, www.gfb.org.

Cap and Gown Orders - Balfour will be at school on Feb 1st and 2nd during lunch for Cap and Gown orders.  Senior Dues are $85.00.  This covers the cost of all graduation fees

New Scholarships

Lions Club-The Oconee Lions Club would like to once again recognize the achievements of an OCHS graduating senior who provides evidence of the following: (1) Good citizenship, (2) an active interest in the civic, cultural, social and moral welfare of the community, and (3) has a record of service to the community without personal financial reward. The amount of the scholarship is $1,000 and is not intended to necessarily benefit the students with high GPA's or test scores. Special weight will be given to community service accomplishments. Applications can now be picked up in the guidance office and are due to Mr. Guthas by 3:00 on April 15, 2011.

GASSP - Each year Georgia Association of Secondary School Principals awards scholarships to the children of GASSP members.  The application is now posted on line with all the information needed.  Go to www.gassp.org and “Click” on “Opportunities” to download the application.  This year our scholarship program is sponsored by Lifetouch.  There will be both $500 and $1000 scholarships awarded.

North Georgia Military Scholarships – 30 of these are still available!!  The State of Georgia offers thirty-nine scholarships per year to Georgia high school seniors who attend North Georgia and commission as officers in the Georgia Army National Guard after graduating with bachelor’s degrees. The scholarship pays for room, meals, tuition, books, uniforms, and fees. In addition, GMS recipients receive National Guard weekend drill pay, GI Bill, pay for attending Army basic and advanced training, and Army ROTC contract pay (starting beginning of sophomore year).  Recipients may also be eligible for an enlistment bonus and monthly GI Bill kicker. After graduating college recipients may receive an additional $10,000 commissioning bonus.

 GMS Scholarship recipients are non-deployable as long as they are enrolled and remain in good standing with North Georgia and the Georgia Army National Guard.

 Requirements:

1. Be a resident of Georgia.

2. Receive a nomination from a state assemblyman.

3. Meet the academic requirements for, and gain regular admission, to North Georgia.

4. Meet Army National Guard medical and physical standards.

5. Agree to serve as an enlisted member in the Georgia Army National Guard while a Cadet at North Georgia.

6. Agree to accept a commission upon graduation from North Georgia and serve four years as a commissioned officer in the Georgia Army National Guard.

  Step-by-Step Application Instructions:  www.northgeorgia.edu/gmssteps

FYI Fair

The FYI Fair has been rescheduled for this Thursday January 20.

Students in grades 8-11, along with their parents, are invited to attend the 3rd annual FYI Fair at Oconee County High School from 6-8 pm. This is an excellent opportunity to find out more about the courses offered at OCHS, learn about GA College 411 and how it can help your student plan for the future, pick up PLAN scores for sophomores, and an explanation of PSAT scores. See the complete list of sessions offered for more information.

Parents of students interested in taking Advanced Placement courses are also invited to attend the AP Parent Night also on the 20th from 5:30-6:00 in the OCHS cafeteria.

Makeup days due to snow

Linked here is a letter with important information about the snow make-up days for students and staff. In a nutshell, students will make up three of the days missed this week on the following dates, which have already been designated as "Snow Make Up Days":

• February 14th


• February 15th


• March 14th

Two student make-up days will be "forgiven" as provided in Georgia law.

Furman Summer Scholars – The Furman Summer Scholars program is for students excited to find out what college is like and who want to do something really incredible with your summer.  Through this experience, you can take part in lectures, debates, discussions, research, field trips, and many other opportunities. To learn more details about this program, please visit www.engagefurman.com.

Furman Scholars - OCHS can nominate up to six outstanding juniors for the prestigious Furman Scholar award. Furman is looking for students who not only excel in academics, but in life. Outstanding character is important to become a Furman Scholar. All Furman Scholars who are accepted for admission will receive a merit based scholarship of at least $5,000. If you are a junior, have a competitive academic history thus far and are interested in attending Furman University, please see Mr. Guthas in the guidance office no later than February 16, 2011.

Erskine Fellows Program - Erskine College is proud to continue the Erskine Fellows Program. This program is to honor outstanding students and OCHS may nominate a minimum of four Erskine Fellows. Erskine Fellows should be talented juniors in the top 10% of their class and have demonstrated qualities of leadership as indicated by their participation in extracurricular and community activities. They should have earned a minimum 1100 (critical reading and math) on the SAT or 24 (composite) on the ACT.

 Erskine Fellows who visit the campus this spring, meet admission standards and enroll at Erskine in the fall will receive a minimum academic scholarship of $5,000 per year. Please see Mr. Guthas in the guidance office if you are interested in being nominated. All nomination forms must be turned in by February 25, 2011.

SCAD Summer Programs - The Savannah College of Art and Design offers summer seminars for all ages. Applications and registration forms for all summer programs as well as a downloadable PDF of the catalog are available online at www.scad.edu/summer. Early application is encouraged as space is limited.

New Scholarships for Seniors

The Adam Hammond Scholarship Fund will provide an OCHS senior with a one thousand dollar scholarship to go towards college tuition. A student will be chosen based on academic achievement, school improvement and attendance. Applicants are asked to submit a 500 to 700 word essay describing how Oconee County Schools have impacted their life and what attributes they hope to bring to a college campus. Also, an explanation of the the career path you plan to take and why is required as well. Applicants will need to obtain two letters of recommendation along with a copy of the official transcript.

 Adam Hammond was a 2004 graduate of OCHS and currently works as a news anchor for FOX in Macon, GA. Through this scholarship, he hopes to provide resources for Oconee County students to further their education and continue to contribute to the community. Applications can be picked up in the guidance office and are due to your guidance counselor by April, 1, 2011. For further information on the scholarship fund, visit www.adamhammond.com .

Senior students who are interested in attending Armstrong Atlantic State University in the fall and planning on pursuing a career in science or math may be interested in applying for the National Science Foundation Science Talent Expansion Program (NSF-STEP). STEP scholars conduct  weeks of research in the summer before the first year at Armstrong. Students who are selected as STEP scholars must commit to attend Armstrong in the Fall of 2011. Complete applications must be submitted by April 29 and can be found at http://armstrong.edu/forms/step_application_form.html 

The Mercer University School of Engineering is inviting OCHS to nominate up to three seniors to participate in their inaugural Tech Comm Scholarship Challenge on the Macon campus on Saturday, February 19. Mercer plans to award valuable scholarships to high school seniors interested in Mercer's technical communication program. Successful students typically score about evenly on both parts of the SAT and enjoy using technology. A video describing this program in further detail can be found at http://www.mercer.edu/tco. Students who are interested should see Mr. Guthas by Monday, January 24.

Registration for the 2011-2012 school year is coming!

General Registration information, including a timeline, can be found here. More information will be posted over the next week, so keep checking in.


If you and your student aren't sure of the options available, or would like to talk to teachers about courses, then the FYI Fair is for you!

Students in grades 8-11, along with their parents, are invited to attend the 3rd annual FYI Fair at Oconee County High School on Thursday, January 13 from 6-8 pm. This is an excellent opportunity to find out more about the courses offered at OCHS, learn about GA College 411 and how it can help your student plan for the future, pick up PLAN scores for sophomores, and an explanation of PSAT scores. See the complete list of sessions offered for more information.

Parents of students interested in taking Advanced Placement courses are also invited to attend the AP Parent Night also on January 13th from 5:30-6:00 in the OCHS cafeteria.

Turner Summer Program Applications Available Now!  Leadership Unplugged: A CNN Experience June 19–24, 2011 Attend daily interactive workshops developed and led by professionals from CNN. Network with CNN and TBS, Inc. executives in a variety of media related careers. Discuss and analyze world issues with CNN journalists. Create a news-related project with feedback from the pros. Meet motivated young leaders from across the state of Georgia. Gain valuable experience and a TERRIFIC resume item for your college application!

Leadership Plugged-In: A Turner Technology Experience July 17-22, 2011 Attend daily interactive workshops developed and led by professionals from TBS. Network with TBS, Inc. executives in a variety of technology related careers. Learn about major areas—Broadband, Linear, Interactive TV, Mobile, On Demand. Create a technology based project with feedback from the pros. Meet motivated young leaders from across the state of Georgia. Gain valuable experience and a TERRIFIC item for college applications!

Learn More About Our Summer Programs! Application information is available online at  www.21stcenturyleaders.org APPLICATION DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 11, 2011

Grades 10-11- Washington Youth Tour Sophomores and juniors have an opportunity through Walton EMC's Washington Youth Tour to meet with Georgia's U.S. representatives and senators. This event will take place June 9-16. For the past 44 years, Walton EMC has invested in our area's young people by sending them, all expenses paid, to get a close look at our government in action. Students who apply must take a written test and then depending on those results, be interviewed where judges will choose four winners and one alternate. For applications, please see Mr. Guthas in the guidance office. The entry form deadline is Friday, February 11.

Grades 9-12- Best Buy Scholarship All students in grades 9-12 can apply for scholarships sponsored by Best Buy. There will be 1,200 scholarships of $1,000 each awarded. Apply online by February 16 at www.bestbuy-communityrelations.com .