Resources for Students
For scholarships, job and training opportunities, and mental health resources, please click the links below:
College Resources
Mayer Lutheran High School students have access to a full-time guidance counselor who will help each student develop an academic plan to prepare them for what comes after high school, be it college, vocational, service or a job. Parents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the different course offerings and dual-credit options available. It’s never too early to start preparing!
AP and PSEO Information
ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COURSES
Students may receive college credit by successfully passing a test offered through the Advanced Placement program. MLHS offers courses designed to help students prepare for these tests, which are taken at MLHS. College credit is not guaranteed. At the end of each year AP students register to take a test. Students receiving a score of 3, 4, or 5 may be granted college credit for the appropriate class. A fee for this test is required from each student regardless of their score. Advanced Placement courses are currently offered in English (Language and Literature & Language and Composition), U.S. History, World History, Physics, and Calculus. AP classes qualify for weighted GPA points.
POST-SECONDARY ENROLLMENT OPTIONS
A sophomore, junior or senior may apply for the Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program offered by the State of Minnesota. This program pays college or university tuition and fees for students who enroll in an accredited college or university while still considered a high school student. The following procedures apply.
- Students enrolled in PSEO classes must still meet the graduation criteria at MLHS unless enrolled full time in an accredited college/university.
- MLHS will waive 1 credit (2 semester classes) for students enrolled full time at an accredited college. These credits may only be waived from “Religion” or “elective” categories
- Students enrolled in the PSEO program remain eligible for the National Honor Society.
- PSEO students are not exempt from the full graduation fee.
- PSEO students remain eligible to participate in co-curricular activities.
- PSEO students will be charged per credit for any classes taken which lead to a student’s early graduation. (Before the end of their second semester senior year).
- A student is not to exceed a 7/7 load without the permission of the Principal.
Post -Secondary Financial Policy: to determine the MLHS tuition for off-campus PSEO students, contact the Business Assistant.
Steps to be completed for PSEO:
- The student meets with the Guidance Office to discuss pros, cons, and the process related to the PSEO program.
- Parent contact is made by the Guidance Counselor to discuss options.
- The student investigates college options and visits prospective colleges.
- Students complete the application process for state reimbursement
- Students enroll in the participating college.
- Once students have been accepted into the college they complete a Notice of Student Registration.(See Guidance Counselor for form.)
- The student submits this form to the college.
- The college sends this form to the state after the enrollment process is complete.
Class Preparation
FRESHMEN
Ninth grade schedules have the least flexibility, however it’s a great idea to look ahead to make sure to plan for any specific classes outside the requirement that you are interested in. For example, an increasing number of colleges require at least two years of language study. Physics and Calculus fill graduation requirements but are often taken as electives, so make sure to plan ahead so you can fit everything in.
Grades are another thing that take on much more importance in high school. MLHS keeps parents informed of any slippage in attendance and grades, but it’s important if you plan to attend college to keep those grades up. Placement test scores are important, but GPA is often just as important. Good study skills and testing strategies are one of the most important things to develop your first year in high school
SOPHOMORES
Tenth graders are already starting to take advanced coursework and settling in. Continued good grades are extremely important if you plan to attend college. Sophomores are encouraged to meet with their teachers individually if subject matter is challenging or if they are having a hard time with tests. Teachers are often able to direct students to more efficient study habits for tests and papers. Students who work on becoming their own advocate to problem-solve academic challenges are better positioned for college than those who don’t. Now is the time to start.
JUNIORS
Eleventh grade is the big ACT testing year. Most college-bound students prepare for and take their first ACT by the end of their junior year. By preparing for the test during the junior year, students have plenty of time to re-take the test to try to earn a better score by the time college applications open up. Knowing your ACT scores helps you narrow down the myriad of college choices.
SENIORS
This is a busy year! MLHS encourages parents and students to get as much as possible done before that crazy last-year of high school begins. Early college applications are available at many colleges. Research your options. Acceptance rates can also vary depending on when you apply. Most seniors at MLHS have challenging schedules their last year, including AP and PSEO courses. Finishing strong with their grades is very important. Mrs. Kelzer is available to help answer any questions you have as you begin this exciting new phase of your life.