Solon High School in Ohio has initiated its annual Junior Jump Start program, providing students with essential tools for postsecondary planning. This initiative helps juniors navigate their options for college, military, workforce entry, or gap years.
During the program, school counselors guided students through SchooLinks, the district’s college and career planning platform. This resource enables students to explore various career paths, colleges, and track their graduation requirements while maintaining their resumes. “The goal is to get our students on a jumpstart path to their post-secondary planning,” said Ann Trocchio, the director of school counseling at Solon High School.
As part of the program, students received a checklist with key action items for the upcoming months. This checklist includes attending college representative presentations, identifying teachers for recommendation letters, and exploring scholarship opportunities. The intention is to help students stay organized as they prepare for their senior year.
Counselors acknowledged that navigating postsecondary options can feel overwhelming. Trocchio emphasized the importance of reassurance and ongoing support, stating, “We acknowledge how they feel and let them know we’re here to guide them all the way.” The counseling team aims to work closely with students and families, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their futures.
From the moment students enter Solon High School, the counseling team begins preparing them for their postsecondary planning over the course of four years. “It’s our passion and goal to ensure we’re giving students the resources and information they need to be even more successful,” Trocchio added.
To reinforce school spirit and promote discussions about life after high school, staff members wore college and university apparel during the Junior Jump Start program, as noted by Tamara Strom, the Communications Director for Solon Schools.
Junior Jump Start is part of a broader array of programs designed to support students in their postsecondary journeys. These initiatives include ACT tips nights, financial aid information sessions, and career panels aimed at both students and their families. Another notable opportunity is the district’s annual ACT Boot Camp, which supplements classroom instruction and provides additional support ahead of standardized testing.
“The ACT Boot Camp for 10th and 11th graders takes place every January,” Strom explained. “The program offers students two opportunities to participate before the state-mandated test in March.” This boot camp not only helps improve standardized test scores for college admission but also aligns with Ohio’s College, Career, Workforce, and Military Readiness graduation requirement.
Feedback from previous sessions of the boot camp has been overwhelmingly positive, with families expressing appreciation for the opportunity. The next session is scheduled for January 10, from 9:00 to 14:30, with registration commencing at 8:00. Participation is not capped, and the program is offered at a reasonable cost, with free access for qualifying juniors through the federal free and reduced lunch program fee waiver.
Through initiatives like Junior Jump Start and related programming, Solon High School is committed to helping students explore their options, maintain organization, and find the right fit for their postsecondary plans as graduation approaches.
