October 23 is going to be a busy and exciting day for all Hastings High students. During periods 2-5, freshmen will take the EXPLORE test in their FMPs, and sophomores will take the PLAN test in their Guided Study Halls. Classes will be kept fairly small, and there will be at least two teachers in every room in order to provide the best test-taking environment for students. Guidance counselor Patt McConnaughhay says that taking these tests can be very beneficial to students.
“These tests serve as good benchmarks to see how well a student is doing in their classes. They also help students plan for future classes, college, and possible careers,” she said.
Juniors and seniors are excused from periods 2-5 and have several special opportunities available to them. One option they have is to take the ASSET test. These test scores are wanted by many community colleges.
“The ASSET test is a placement exam,” said McConnaughhay. “It lets a student know what English or math classes they are ready for. If a student doesn’t score high enough in a certain area, community colleges would want the placement.”
Some other choices for upperclassmen on October 23 include scheduling their own job shadow or going on a school-run college bus tour. Tours available to students include CCC/Hastings College, CCC in Columbus, UNK, UNL/Nebraska Wesleyan, UNO, and Creighton University.
At 6:30 p.m., Hastings College and Mary Lanning Healthcare will be hosting MedReady at the Morrison-Reeves Science Center. MedReady is a program that is open to all juniors and seniors who are interested in going into the medical field.
“MedReady helps students and parents become more knowledgeable on what is required for med school,” McConnaughhay said.
Some other topics discussed will include courses to take, time commitments, financial aid, and loan forgiveness. Registration is free at www.hastings.edu/medready.
