Counseling and Guidance
High School
Mrs. Sue Turner
High School Counselor
sturner@isd116.org
(218)746-2116
- College Entrance Testing
- College Admission & Events
- Financial Aid
- Scholarships
- Credit Recovery
- Earning College Credit in HS
- Course Registration Guide
College Entrance Testing
ACT Test Dates
ACT (American College Testing)
The ACT is an entrance exam used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. It is a multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper test administered by ACT, Inc.
The purpose of the ACT test is to measure a high school student's readiness for college, and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. College admissions officers will review standardized test scores alongside your high school GPA, the classes you took in high school, letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors, extracurricular activities, admissions interviews, and personal essays. How important ACT scores are in the college application process varies from school to school.
Overall, the higher you score on the ACT and/or SAT, the more options for attending and paying for college will be available to you.
For more information on the ACT please visit https://act.org.
Pre-ACT
PreACT (Preliminary ACT)
The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test that many colleges and universities use for college admissions and awarding scholarships. The PreACT is a practice test for the ACT exam and measures progress towards college readiness. Students who choose to take the PreACT will also have the opportunity to take the interest inventory and engage in college major exploration or learn more about work-related careers that match the student's interests.
The results from the PreACT will give each student invaluable feedback on where their current knowledge and skills lie along with areas that may need more work and focus. Students can plug in their PreACT scores on the ACT Academy website (a free online learning tool offered by ACT) and get their own personal path for improvement. The ACT Academy allows for students to work at their own pace to improve in the areas suggested by the PreACT.
The PreACT will be available for any freshman who would like to take it free of charge. Interested students can sign up with Mrs. Turner.
For more information on the PreACT please click on the link below.
https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/preact.html
PRE-ACT SIGN UP
A.S.V.A.B.
ASVAB (Armed Services Aptitude Battery)
The ASVAB will be offered to all juniors on Tuesday, December 6th free of charge. This exam is optional.
The ASVAB is a comprehensive career exploration and planning program that includes a timed multiple aptitude test battery, an interest inventory, and an exercise designed to help students explore the world of work. Results of the aptitude test and the inventory enable students to evaluate their skills, estimate performance in academic and vocational endeavors, and identify potentially satisfying careers. There are nine sections on the exam and include: General Science, Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Math Knowledge, Electronics Information, Auto Information, Shop Information, Mechanical Comprehension, and Assembling Objects.
If you believe you are moving towards a trades career or are planning on attending a community or technical college the ASVAB may be the exam you choose to take versus the ACT this spring (the ACT is used to help assess college readiness in the areas of Reading, Math, English, and Science. Students planning on attending a four-year college or university typically take the ACT).
A sign up sheet will be made available through Google Docs to all juniors for the ASVAB. The deadline to sign up is Friday, December 2nd. The test is funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, but in no way is this testing a solicitation to join the armed forces. This program is strictly for students to learn more about themselves and their academic abilities.
P.S.A.T
PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT)
On Wednesday, October 12th the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) will be given at the high school. The PSAT measures critical reading, math problem-solving, and writing and language skills. This test is a preview of the type of questions students may find on the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test). The PSAT lets students compare their ability to do college work with the ability of other college-bound students.
The PSAT is the only test that may qualify your student for the National Merit Scholarship program. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation uses the PSAT to decide which high school students will be distinguished as National Merit Commendations (approximately 34,000 students out of the nation), Semifinalists (approximately 16,000 students out of the nation), Finalists (approximately 15,000 students out of the nation), and Scholars (approximately 8,200 students out of the nation). The PSAT is not a test students are required to take. Students should plan on taking the exam if:
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You are planning on taking the SAT your senior year (ACT and SAT may be required or highly recommended when applying to any four-year college or university or for scholarship eligibility)
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If you are planning on attending a four-year college only
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If you believe you may qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program
Students interested in taking the PSAT need to sign up with me no later than Monday, October 10th on the Google Doc form that I will share with them in an email. The exam will last approximately three and a half hours. Students need to check-in with their first period class on testing day (8:20 am). An announcement will be made for all students to report to the CTC Center after the announcements.
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There is a cost to take the PSAT. The cost for the 22-23 school year is $18.00. Please make sure your student brings in cash/check (made payable to Pillager High School) the day of the test.
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Please make sure to pick up a study guide in the high school office.
For more information and a free full length practice test please click on the link below.
S.A.T.
SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
The SAT is also used as a measuring tool to make admissions decisions to colleges and universities as well as awarding scholarships. The purpose of the SAT is to measure a high school student's readiness for college, and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. If you choose to take the SAT you will be measured in the following areas:
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Reading
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Writing & Language
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Math (with calculator)
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Math (no calculator)
Which college entrance test should I take?
If you have an idea of what colleges you are planning on applying to make sure to check what their admission requirements are. Most colleges do not have a preference on whether you take the ACT or the SAT. Some students may choose to take both the ACT and the SAT.
College Admission & Events
Juniors & Seniors
CLC is hosting their annual Minnesota Education Fair which will be held at the CLC Brainerd Campus Gymnasium on Wednesday, September 27, from 9:00-10:30 am. You will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from approximately 70 different colleges, universities, community and technical colleges, and specialty schools. (See attached list of schools). You can register your contact information online and receive a barcode at www.strivefair.com. This allows college representatives to scan the barcode easily, without you having to fill out numerous informational cards.
This is not a school sponsored activity. If you wish to participate you must find your own ride and your parents must call the school to excuse you for this event.
Event Details
What: CLC Annual Education Fair
Where: Central Lakes College Brainerd Campus Gymnasium
When: Wednesday, September 27th from 9:00-10:30 am
MN North College will be on the Pillager campus on Thursday, October 5th at 9:00 am. Students interested in visiting with the admissions rep can sign up in the high school office.
The Veterinary Technology department at Ridgewater College-Willmar Campus will be hosting their annual career fair on Tuesday, October 17, 2023. The program begins at 12:00 pm and will end around 4:00 pm. This event will help you learn about careers in veterinary technology. Please see the attached flyer for more information. This is not a school sponsored event.
On Wednesday, October 26th, Concordia College (Moorhead) will be on the Pillager Campus at 9:00 am. If you wish to visit with the college representative, please sign up in the high school office.
October is College Knowledge Month in Minnesota and to celebrate, the colleges and universities of Minnesota State are waiving their application fees for the entire month. That's what we call Minnesota State Month!
October is a great time for your senior students to explore one or more of the 26 colleges and seven universities of Minnesota State and apply for FREE. More information is available at: https://MinnState.edu/
October is Minnesota State Month. For the entire month of October, you can apply for FREE to one or more of the 26 state colleges and seven state universities of Minnesota State. It's a great way for you to save some money on application fees and get started on your higher education journey!
Learn more about Minnesota State Month at https://www.minnstate.edu/MinnStateWk/
Financial Aid
What you need to know about Financial Aid
FSA ID WORKSHEET
FINANCIAL AID POWER POINT PRESENTATION
If your student is a senior in high school this year and is planning on attending either a two-year or four-year college, please make sure to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The 22-23 FAFSA applications will be open starting Saturday, October 1. Please make sure you complete the FAFSA as soon as possible as many of the grant opportunities are on a first come basis.
Please click on the links below to complete the FAFSA application.
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
https://studentaid.gov/help/info-needed
Ready, Set, FAFSA
Join Our Virtual Sessions About Applying and Paying for College and Be Eligible to Win a $500 Scholarship
Join us starting September 27th at 7pm for a series of college and financial aid webinars created for students and families to help them prepare for the college-going process. We will have live chat support available for all questions.
Interpreters will be available in
Spanish, Hmong and Somali.
Students who attend these sessions will be entered into a drawing to win a $500 scholarship! Click here for more information
Suggested audience: 10th, 11th, 12th grade students and their parent(s)/guardian(s)
Apply to College - September 27 @ 7:00 p.m.
Understand Financial Aid - October 4 @ 7:00 p.m.
Prepare to Apply for Financial Aid - October 11 @ 7:00 p.m.
Apply for Financial Aid - October 18 @ 7:00 p.m.
Search for Scholarships - October 25 @ 7:00 p.m.
Scholarships
SCHOLARSHIPS
- Scholarships Overview
- Pillager Booster Club & The Pillager Foundation Scholarship
- MAKA Scholarship
- Minnesota House of Representatives Page Program
- Pillager Lions Club Scholarship
- Voice of Democracy Competition
- Crow Wing Power Scholarship
- 2022-2023 Essay "Delegate to Second Continental Congress" Scholarship
- DAR Good Citizen Essay Scholarship
- Elks National Foundation Scholarships
- Marshall H. & Nellie Alworth Memorial Scholarship
- Crestline Scholarship
- MN Association of Townships Scholarship Program
- The Legacy Chorale of Greater MN Vocal Music Scholarship
- Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship
- Central Lakes College Career & Technical Scholarship 2022-2023
- Central Lakes College Liberal Arts Scholarship 2022-2023
- Pillager Education Foundation Scholarship
- HMEF & NRAEF Scholarships
- Lakes Area Manufacturing Alliance "LAMA"
- NIAAA Student Scholarship 2023
- CTC (Consolidated Telephone Company)
- CTC Washington D.C. Youth Tour
- CTC Minnesota Telecom Alliance Foundation Scholarship
- Girls State
- Selfless Scholar Program
- Minnesota AFL-CIO Scholarships
- PEO Star Scholarship
- Ron Houle Memorial Scholarship
- Kimberly Rhett Memorial Scholarship
- Lynn Enberg Scholarship
- Gabe Rapatz & Jennifer Rapatz-Harr Scholarships
- Education MN-Pillager Scholarship
Scholarships Overview
Welcome to the 22-23 school year. Below you will find links to major scholarship search engines that list over thousands of scholarship opportunities for your student. The local Pillager scholarships will become available late winter and/or early spring. Please make sure to be on the lookout for those scholarships and their applications later this year.
National Scholarship Search Engine Links
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/scholarship-search
Pillager Booster Club & The Pillager Foundation Scholarship
MAKA Scholarship
MAKA SCHOLARSHIP (MINNESOTA ASSOCIATION FOR KOREAN AMERICANS)
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, must be a high school senior for the academic 22-23 school year, must be of Korean heritage, and must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or greater.
Minnesota House of Representatives Page Program
Must be a junior in high school.
Pillager Lions Club Scholarship
Must be a graduating senior planning to attend either a four-year or two-year college after high school.
Voice of Democracy Competition
The button below is an attachment for the information for the Voice of Democracy Competition. This year's theme is, "Why is the Veteran Important?" Students can win prizes between $200, $250, and $300. If your essay/video recording is chosen you may move on to the district, state, and national level where there are $154,000 in prizes given by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Act now, the deadline for submission is October 31. Please see the attached flyer for more details!
Crow Wing Power Scholarship
The only qualification is that you have to be a member of Crow Wing Power (your immediate family has to receive electricity from Crow Wing Power). Money will be sent directly to your college of choice in your name. Children of Crow Wing Power employees are not eligible.
2022-2023 Essay "Delegate to Second Continental Congress" Scholarship
Award:
Varies
Qualifications:
Open to students grades 9-12. Students are required to write an essay on the topic "Delegate to Second Continental Congress." Below are the specific requirements of the essay.
2022-2023 Essay Title: “Delegate to Second Continental Congress"
REFERENCE: The Second Continental Congress met from May 10, 1775 - March 1, 1781 and included delegates from all thirteen colonies. This Congress was instrumental in shaping what was to become the United States of America. Imagine that you are a delegate during 1775-1776. Which colony are you from and what will be important for you to accomplish for your colony?
FORM: Handwritten in black ink, typed or prepared on computer with NON-SCRIPT font no smaller than 12 pt. and no larger than 14 pt. (ESSAY MUST BE STUDENT’S OWN WORK) Grade 5: 300–600 Grades 6–8: 600–1,000 (All words count. Title page and bibliography excluded. Dates count as one word.).
TITLE PAGE: The following must be listed on the title page: • Title of Essay: Delegate to Second Continental Congress (A subtitle is permitted if written below the topic.) • Contestant’s full name and address (includes street, rural route, or PO Box, city, state, zip code) or may use a parent • Contestant’s phone number and area code • Contestant’s e-mail address or parent • Name of contestant’s school and grade level • Name of sponsoring DAR chapter (Capt. Robert Orr) • Number of words in essay.
JUDGING BASED UPON: (must have a bibliography or is disqualified) 1. Completeness of title page (1 to 5 points) __ 2. Historical accuracy (1 to 25) __ 3. Adherence to subject (1 to 15) __4. Organization of material (1 to 10) __5. Originality (1 to 10) __6. Interest (1 to 10) __7. Spelling and punctuation (1 to 10) __8. Grammar (1 to 10) __9. Bibliography (1 to 5) __
Deadline:
All essays must be submitted by November 30th. Essays must be mailed to the following address for consideration and must be postmarked by November 30th.
2371 132nd St. SW
Pillager, MN 56473
DAR Good Citizen Essay Scholarship
If you are interested in participating in this essay contest please let me know as soon as possible and we can reach out to Carol and get the necessary paperwork. Please read the instructions/qualifications below.
Award:
The Captain Robert Orr Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will be sponsoring the Good Citizen Scholarship and Essay Contest. Each school's DAR Good Citizen receives a DAR Good Citizens pin, certificate, a Constitution, Flag, wallet recognition card, $50, plus a book is donated to the school library in their honor and is honored at a luncheon at the Chapter level. At the State level a certificate, a special State pin, $250 and a scholarship of $1,000. The Division level $500. The National level, a certificate, an inscribed silver bowl, $5,000 and a 2-night stay in Washington, DC plus the State provides $1,000 toward travel to DC. There are 2 National winners, a boy and a girl.
Qualifications:
Requirements are each student must: Provide a grade transcript and 2 letters of recommendation. There is a 2-hour essay, with a teacher/counselor or DAR member present, and must be written without assistance or reference material. The essay is evaluated by non-DAR judges. The winning essay will advance to the State, Division and National levels.
The DAR Good Citizens program and Scholarship Contest is intended to encourage and reward the sparkling qualities of good citizenship in our students. The program is open to all high school seniors enrolled in public or private schools accredited and in good standing with their state board of education. Students are not required to be United States citizens.
The student selected as the school’s DAR Good Citizen must have the following qualities: Dependability (truthfulness, honesty, punctuality, etc.), Service (cooperation, helpfulness, responsibility, etc.), Leaders
Deadline:
Should you have a student (boy or girl) interested, I will immediately provide you with the paperwork. The deadline is November 30. They may start with the letters of recommendation and transcript before filling out the paperwork.
If you have any questions about the DAR Good Citizens program, please contact me at carol.mnsdar@gmail.com or call me at 218-851-3459. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Elks National Foundation Scholarships
See application for details
The application can be found at https://elks.org/enf. The deadline to apply is November 14th. No applications will be accepted after that date.
Marshall H. & Nellie Alworth Memorial Scholarship
Seniors going into the math and science fields should apply for the Marshall H. & Nellie Alworth scholarship. We have many Pillager students who have been awarded this scholarship in years past. Last year we had a senior win this award. Please visit the website for more information, eligibility requirements, and complete your application today!
Award:
High school seniors awarded the scholarship will be eligible to receive $20,000. The award will be distributed over eight semesters ($2,500 per semester) providing recipients meet the following requirements: cumulative GPA of 2.85 as a freshman and a 3.0 for subsequent years, continue to major in an approved mathematics or science field of study, and 35-50% of total credits taken each semester must be in math and science.
Qualifications:
See website/application.
Deadline:
The deadline to apply is January 15th. Please visit https://www.
to learn more about the eligibility requirements and to apply.
Crestline Scholarship
Crestline
Award: $1,000
Qualifications: Must be a U.S. citizen accepted to or currently attending a college or university within the United States. The winner will be required to provide proof of acceptance to your college or university, or a college transcript.
Deadline: Applications must be submitted via the webform by 12/31/2022. Students can apply by clicking on the link below.
https://crestline.com/c/
MN Association of Townships Scholarship Program
The Legacy Chorale of Greater MN Vocal Music Scholarship
1. Applicants must be between the ages of seventeen (17) and twenty-one (21).
2. Applicants can only receive the Vocal Music Scholarship once.
3. Applicants do not need to major in music; however, they must participate in a collegiate
choral/vocal performance group AND take private voice lessons in the 2023-24 academic
year.
4. Applicants must reside or attend school within a 30 mile radius of Brainerd, Minnesota.
5. Applicants must submit a copy of their current academic transcript.
6. Applicants must also submit a letter of recommendation from their music teacher.
7. After the application window closes, each applicant will be contacted to set up an
in-person audition. Applicants will engage in a short interview and perform a vocal music
selection of their choice for the scholarship committee.
8. Scholarship recipient(s) are invited to perform their selection at one of the Legacy
Chorale of Greater Minnesota spring series concerts: April 14 in Crosslake, April 15 in
Deerwood, or April 16 in Brainerd.
9. Scholarship recipient(s) will receive their scholarship award upon completion of their
Fall 2023 semester of college, after they have submitted a copy of their semester
transcript to admin@legacychorale.org
AUDITION INFORMATION
After the application window closes, a member of the scholarship committee will call applicants
to arrange an audition time. Auditions will take place in March at the Franklin Arts Center, 1001
All application materials must be submitted by Friday, February 24, 2023. You can apply online at www.legacychorale.org/
Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship
Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship PDF
Central Lakes College Career & Technical Scholarship 2022-2023
Central Lakes College Career & Technical Scholarship
See attached scholarship for qualifications and deadlines.
Central Lakes College Career & Technical Scholarship 2022-2023
Central Lakes College Liberal Arts Scholarship 2022-2023
Pillager Education Foundation Scholarship
HMEF & NRAEF Scholarships
HMEF & NRAEF Scholarships
Award: Scholarships awards range from $1,000 to $3,000
Qualifications: For qualifications and deadlines please visit the following links.
https://hospitalityminnesota.
https://www.
Lakes Area Manufacturing Alliance "LAMA"
Lakes Area Manufacturing Alliance "LAMA"
The Lakes Area Manufacturing Alliance “LAMA”, is offering scholarships to graduating high school students who wish to enroll in post-secondary education to earn a certificate or degree to pursue a career in a manufacturing-related field!
Award: Scholarship awards will be $1,000. Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, books,
tools or other educationally related materials, supplies, or expenses. Scholarship Awards will be disbursed to the student’s financial aid office, upon the student’s successful completion of their first full-time semester at a post-secondary institution. At that time the recipient must present their grade report from that semester showing a GPA of at least 2.0 and completion of at least 12 credits. Awardees must submit with their request, a photo by a school sign or mascot, and provide a statement for LAMA’s use in promotional efforts for the Scholarship Program.
Qualifications:
- Must be a 2023 graduating senior (or GED equivalent) residing in the counties of Aitkin, Cass, Crow Wing, Morrison, Todd or Wadena and be a US citizen.
- Must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 (C grade) on a 4.0 scale.
- Must be pursuing a certificate or degree in a qualifying manufacturing-related major, as listed in the online application form.
Deadline: The application deadline is March 31, 2023. Students can apply online at https://www.surveymonkey.
NIAAA Student Scholarship 2023
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Applicant must be a senior in high school
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Applicant must have achieved at least one (1) of the following: (a) minimum of B+ average; (b)ranked in the top 25% of class; (c) ACT score of 24 or an SAT score of 1100 (Math and Reading)
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Applicant must have participated in two sports for at least two years in each sport
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Applicant must have earned at least one varsity letter in each of two sports
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Applicant must complete attached scholar/essay application
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Applicant must have a letter of recommendation from the high school athletic administrator/director
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School athletic administrator/director must be an NIAAA member and a member of their respective state athletic administrators association
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The principal or athletic administrator/director must sign the application to ensure that the academic information submitted is accurate
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All hard copy materials must be postmarked or electronic materials sent to the NIAAA Liaison in your respective state by your states deadline.
CTC (Consolidated Telephone Company)
CTC (Consolidated Telephone Company)
Award:
$500
Qualifications:
-The student's family or legal guardian must be a year-round and good standing member in CTC's service area.
-The student plans to attend a two-year or four-year college, university or vocational school.
-The student is a graduating high school senior.
-The student needs to enclose a picture with their application. The scholarship winner's picture will be published in CTC member communications.
Deadline
The scholarship application and picture must be received by March 3, 2023 to Mrs. Turner. No late applications will be accepted. Please see attached for the application form.
CTC Washington D.C. Youth Tour
CTC Washington D.C. Youth Tour
Award:
An all expense paid trip to Washington D.C.(includes airfare, hotel, meals, and miscellaneous expenses).
Qualifications:
A student must be in high school, age 15, 16, or 17, at the time of the tour and the student's parent or legal guardian must be a CTC year-round member in CTC's service area. Each student is required to complete the attached application and submit either a short essay or a 2 minute video on how technology in rural America affects your education.
Deadline:
The application and essay or video are due to CTC by February 24, 2023.
CTC Minnesota Telecom Alliance Foundation Scholarship
CTC Minnesota Telecom Alliance Foundation Scholarship
Award:
The MN Telecom Alliance Foundation will award six scholarships to high school seniors graduating in 2023. Each scholarship will be a one-time amount of $2,000.
Qualifications:
A telecom alliance panel reviews each application and selects finalists based on applicants' grades, academic achievements and extra-curricular activities. Preference to receive the scholarships is given to students who have an interest in telecommunications technology, in rural communities and the student's family or legal guardian are year-round members in CTC service area.
Deadline:
You will need to complete a separate scholarship application from the MTA. Completed applications should be sent directly to CTC, Attn: HR Department, PO Box 972, Brainerd, MN 56401, postmarked no later than February 17, 2023. Applications can be found at www.mnta.org by clicking on MTA Foundation.
Girls State
Girls State
Award:
The American Legion Auxiliary is sponsoring its 76th annual American Legion Auxiliary MN Girls State program on Sunday through Saturday, June 11-17th.
Qualifications:
Students interested in more information can go to www.mnala.org. Once you are at the website click on Programs and go to Girls State.
Selfless Scholar Program
Selfless Scholar Program
Award:
$5,000 award split between the nominee and the nominator
Qualifications:
While most scholarships reward academic achievement, athletic ability, or financial need, this one is designed to recognize kindness.
Deadline:
The application deadline is February 15th. Below is the link to the scholarship application. https://mmc.
Minnesota AFL-CIO Scholarships
Minnesota AFL-CIO Scholarships
Award:
$1,000
Qualifications:
-Must be a union member or a dependent of a union member whose local union is affiliated with the Minnesota AFL-CIO
-Have a straight "B" average or better (3.0 in a 4.0 grade point system)
-Attend a post-secondary institution located within the state of MN.
Deadline:
The scholarship application deadline is May 1, 2023. See attached application.
PEO Star Scholarship
PEO Star Scholarship
Award:
Non-renewable $2,500 scholarship for graduating women in their final year of high school which must be used in the academic year following graduation or it will be forfeited.
Qualifications:
Please see attached information card
Deadline:
See attached Tips for Success.
PEO Star Scholarship Information Card
PEO Timelines & Deadlines for Star Scholarship
PEO Star Scholarship Tips for Successfully Completing the Application
Ron Houle Memorial Scholarship
Ron Houle Memorial Scholarship
Award: Varies
Qualifications: An applicant must be a current year graduate of Pillager High School. Scholarships are awarded to individuals intending to attend Central Lakes College (CLC) with an emphasis in Information Technology during the 2023- 2024 school year. If you do not plan on attending CLC, however, are continuing your education elsewhere in the Information Technology field, we encourage you to still apply.
Deadline: Applications must be submitted to Mrs. Turner by Friday, April 28, 2023. No late applications will be accepted.
Ron Houle Memorial Scholarship Application
Kimberly Rhett Memorial Scholarship
Kimberly Rhett Memorial Scholarship
Award: Varies
Qualifications: An applicant must be a current year graduate of Pillager High School. Scholarships are awarded to individuals attending an accredited postsecondary school, with an emphasis in the culinary arts, during the 2023-2024 school year.
Deadline: Applications must be submitted to Mrs. Turner by Friday, April 28, 2023. No late applications will be accepted.
Lynn Enberg Scholarship
Lynn Enberg Scholarship
The Enberg Family will be offering a one (1) - $1,500 scholarship.
- The Lynn Enberg Scholarship of $1,500 will be offered to a graduating senior from the Pillager Public High School who plans a career in the Education or Medical field.
Scholarship applications are due April 17 and can be mailed or dropped off at:
Gabe Rapatz & Jennifer Rapatz-Harr Scholarships
Gabe Rapatz & Jennifer Rapatz-Harr Scholarships
The Rapatz Family will be offering two 92) - $1,200 scholarships.
- Gabe Rapatz Memorial Scholarship of $1,200 for graduating seniors entering a career field of science.
- Jennifer Rapatz-Harr Memorial Scholarship of $1,200 for a (preferably female) graduating senior entering a medical field or medical science field with financial need given a preference.
Scholarship applications are due Monday, April 17, and can be mailed or dropped off at:
Education MN-Pillager Scholarship
Education MN-Pillager
Award:
$500
Qualifications:
An applicant must be a current year graduate of Pillager High School. All scholarships are awarded to applicants attending an accredited post-secondary school full-time for the subsequent school year. Selection is made on the basis of total points awarded from this application. The application must be completed in its entirety. Any missing information is an incomplete application and cannot be scored.
Deadline:
The application must be turned in to Mrs. Streit on or before Friday, April 21, 2023.
Education MN-Pillager Scholarship Application
Credit Recovery
Credit Recovery
STEPS (Striding Towards Educational & Personal Success)
STEPS is a program for students who have failed one or more core courses. STEPS is offered during the school day and is built into the student’s schedule. STEPS is a collaborative project between Pillager High School and Northern Pines Mental Health Center. STEPS students will participate twice a week in mental health education facilitated by Northern Pines staff. Northern Pines staff will provide psychoeducation around various mental health topics in order to promote resiliency, positive self-esteem, school and life success, encourage healthy self-care and overall coping skills. The mental health component of STEPS will be driven by evidenced-based practices, relevant material geared to adolescents, hands-on activities, and facilitated group processing. Students will receive one Pillager High School credit for completing this portion of STEPS.
The other three days of the week, when students are not participating in the mental health education component, they will be working on recovering their missed credit(s) through Edmentum, an online program to help students understand and go over the concepts they originally missed in their core class(es). When students successfully complete their Edmentum course they will earn an additional credit for the class. This means that students have the potential to earn two credits during this one hour of time to help them “catch up” on credits.
Students who are behind in their credits will automatically be placed in the STEPS program.
ALC (Alternative Learning Center)
ALC (Alternative Learning Center-Pillager)
Pillager High School offers an alternate program option for students to receive their high school diploma through Freshwater Education District. Students may attend as a full-time student in this independent study program. If your student is enrolled in the ALC program they would attend school two evenings per week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:15 pm until 5:30 pm. Students will be given work during the time they are in school and will also be required to bring work home with them to complete before they meet again the following week. For more information about the Pillager ALC program please contact Mrs. Turner at sturner@isd116.org or call her directly at 218.746.2116.
Earning College Credit in HS
- ACC (Articulated College Credit)
- AA Degree at Pillager High School
- College Credit While in High School
ACC (Articulated College Credit)
Articulated College Credit
ARTICULATED COLLEGE CREDIT
What it means to you
WHY EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH ARTICULATED COLLEGE CREDIT (ACC)?
1. Earn Technical or Community College credits (Articulated College Credit) in grades 10, 11, 12
2. Stay in your own high school with your friends and the teachers you already know
3. Explore career opportunities through high school courses
4. Complete your college program sooner, save time and money
5. Choose a specific Technical or Community College career program or a major that may lead to transfer options to a university
HOW DO I GET ARTICULATED COLLEGE CREDIT (ACC)?
1. The following courses are articulated at PHS:
- Accounting II
- College Digital Photography
- Computer Applications
- Desktop Publishing
- Intro to Business
- Intro to Computers Online
- Small Gas Engines
- Web Page Design
2. If these classes fit your interests and career goals, or if you want to explore the career field, choose one of these classes.
3. Then, ask your teacher how you can get Articulated College Credit.
WHAT DO I DO WITH ARTICULATED COLLEGE CREDIT?
1. Download your ACC record at any time after you have completed your high school ACC course.
2. Bring the ACC record to one of the colleges listed and enroll in a career program or major.
3. Check with the college records office as they may have a procedure to follow.
WHERE CAN I USE THE CREDIT?
1. Bring your printed ACC record when registering at a college listed on your certificate to receive the credit(s) earned. Other colleges MAY honor the credits.
2. You must always check with the college or university of your choice for specific criteria in a program or major, not all credits will move into all programs or majors.
WHO IS PART OF CTE Credit MN?
There are many Career and Technical Consortia across MN. A consortium is a group of high schools and colleges who work together to provide students a link from high school to college.
Where do I learn more about ACC?
Just follow the link below.
AA Degree at Pillager High School
AA Degree at PHS
Pillager high School (PHS) has partnered with Central Lakes College (CLC) to offer online college level coursework to students who wish to earn college credit without leaving the traditional high school setting. The first two years of most 4-year college degrees require the completion of "general education" credits.
College credits earned at PHS can be applied toward the following options:
Associate in Arts (AA) degree- 60 college credits
MN Transfer Curriculum (MnTC)-40 college credit
Which should you choose? It really depends on your goals and the number of credits you can complete in high school. They are both great options! The AA degree will allow you to transfer with your first two years completed, while the MnTC option allows you to meet general education requirements but still gives you the option of completing electives at your college of choice.
*Note: CLC requires that 15 of the 60 credits required for an AA degree must be taught by CLC faculty. Online courses offered through CLC will meet that requirement.
Where can these degree options transfer?
Each option is designed to easily transfer to MnSCU institutions. For a complete list of MnSCU colleges go to http://minnstate.edu/ and click on "Colleges and Universities."
Many colleges and universities in MN do accept the AA degree as well. Be sure to check with the admissions office of the college of your choice!
College Credit While in High School
College Credit While in High School
CAREER AND COLLEGE READINESS RESOURCES
In today's global economy, students must be well-prepared for the demands of college and the workplace. Pillager High School provides support to assist students as they transition from middle school to high school and into an increasingly wide array of post-secondary options. For any career and college readiness questions please contact:
Amy Strother
Career Advisor
Email: [email protected]
*Amy is available on the Pillager campus on Monday and Wednesday from 8:00 am-3:15 pm. Amy's office is located next to the high school nurse's office in room 234.
CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT THROUGH CENTRAL LAKES COLLEGE
Pillager High School partners with Central Lakes College to offer the following college credit courses to our high school students. Students who successfully complete these courses generate both high school and college credit from the partnering post-secondary institution. Some of the courses are offered on a rotating basis.
Life Science Chemistry* (for health/science majors)
Composition I & II
Calculus I
Intro to Sociology
College Algebra
Introduction to Business
General Psychology
World History I & II
Pre-Calculus
Accounting for Non-Accountants
Wind Symphony
Concert Chorale
Fitness Walking
Vide Productions
Introduction to Global Studies
On Course (Student Success)
Introduction to Literature
Introduction to Science Fiction & Fantasy Literature
PSEO & CTE
PSEO is a program that allows students in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades earn both high school and college credit while still in high school, through enrollment in and successful completion of college-level, nonsectarian courses at eligible participating post-secondary institutions. Most PSEO courses are offered on the campus of the postsecondary institution; some courses are offered online. Each participating college or university sets its own requirements for enrollment into the PSEO courses. Eleventh and twelfth-grade students may take PSEO courses on a full or part-time basis; 9th and 10th graders may take one CTE (Career and Technical) PSEO course. If they earn at least a C in that class, they may take additional PSEO courses. To qualify as a 9th or 10th grader in a CTE course, students must have met the standards in Reading and Math and be in the 90th percentile of their graduating class.
PSEO AT CENTRAL LAKES COLLEGE
Sophomores and Juniors interested in attending CLC for the 2022-2023 school year should see Mrs. Turner at the beginning of March 2022 to start the application process. The deadline to register for PSEO is May 31, 2022. In order to go PSEO as a junior and senior student need the following:
1. 3.0 cumulative GPA for junior students.
2. 2.5 cumulative GPA for senior students.
3. Must fill out a CLC application form and a PSEO application form
4. Students must register and meet the cut scores on the Accuplacer exam for Reading and Math. Cut scores are set by CLC.
5. Registration for the fall semester for new PSEO students begins in April.
COLLEGE-LEVEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM (CLEP)
The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a College Board program that allows students to accelerate their education by earning college credit by taking a computer-based test of their knowledge. Learning can be done through general academic instruction, independent study, extracurricular work or volunteerism. The time and money saved can be significant. Check with the postsecondary institution of your choice for their most recent CLEP credit policy. Visit the College Board website for more information.
For current information about the PSEO program, visit the Minnesota Department of Education's Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) webpage.
Course Registration Guide
Middle School
Stacy Germundson
Middle School Counselor
sgermundson@isd116.org
(218) 746-2097
This is my 7th year as the middle school counselor here in Pillager, MN. Previously, I was a middle and high school counselor in Prior Lake, MN for 14 years. My husband is an insurance and retirement agent with Horace Mann. We have 2 children (Gaje & Ellen). Our family loves living up north with the woods, lakes and wildlife!
My mission here as a school counselor is to assist all students with any academic, social and emotional needs they may have. That includes:
* Writing and facilitating social/emotional learning curriculum that is delivered in the classroom 2 days each week to all students during their Pride Times. The curriculum focuses on anti-bullying, building a culture of kindness, living a life with gratitude and mindfulness, building resilience, having tolerance and compassion for others and creating your own vision for your future and career exploration.
* Meeting individually with students regularly in order to support them with anxiety, family change, low self-esteem and relationship building.
* Meeting in small groups to help develop positive peer relationships or resolve conflicts.
* Advising a middle school student group called, RAK PAK! We facilitate acts of kindness towards students, teachers and community members throughout the year in order to promote a culture of kindness. RAK PAK also sponsors Unity Day in October, where we all wear orange in support of anyone who has experienced bullying. RAK PAK and the entire middle school participate in positive relationship building activities on Unity Day every year.
Feel free to contact me if I can be of any assistance to you or your child!
Elementary
Ms.Elizabeth Benson
School Counselor & Social Worker
ebenson@isd116.org
Pillager Career Advisor
Career & College Planning
Make A Plan!
Any grade is the right grade to start thinking about future careers. Central Minnesota offers hundreds of great jobs — your job is to find which one is right for you.
First, assess your skills, interests and personality to find out what types of careers you’re interested in.
Then, research those careers. Do you need additional training or education after high school? What are the job potentials where you want to live? How much will you earn, and is it enough to live comfortably?
Did you know you can explore many different career pathways at Pillager School? Pillager offers a world of options — Bridges Career Academies , the ability to earn college credit, support in finding a job and more.
Pathways at Pillager School
Click on a color button below to learn more about different career fields and the related career pathways at Pillager School.
Career Assessment
Career Readiness
Finding your first job can sometimes be a challenge. Businesses want experience and you need a job to get experience. Hopefully, the steps below will help you understand the process and give you a few tips on how to secure your first job. And remember, every job can lead to another position. It's also important o know what type of wage you'll need to live in central Minnesota.
PLAN YOUR SEARCH
1. Networking — Networking is simply talking to people you know – parents, relatives, teachers, coaches – about your desires to work. Show enthusiasm and share what types of skills you have or what type of work you want.
CAREERwise Education networking tips
CareerOneStop networking tips
Social Media — Use your online tools to help with your job search. But remember, most everything you post online is also viewable by a potential employer.
– MN DEED social media tips
– Understanding your online image (CareerOneStop)
2. Research Employers — Research companies you’d like to work for. Local Chambers are usually a great starting point, as are trade associations.
Research Local Businesses who are Bridges’ partners
3. Search for jobs — Use our easy-to-use Career Depot to search for jobs exclusively for 14-18 year olds.
Search the Career Depot
THE HIRING PROCESS
1. Applications — Get the interview by making sure your application or resume is as good as it can be.
CAREERwise Education application tips
MN DEED application tips
CareerOneStop application tips
2. Resumes — First jobs usually don’t ask for resumes or cover letters, but here are a few links to help you when you do need those tools.
CAREERwise Education resume tips
MN DEED resume tips
E-class from MN DEED on resumes
CareerOneStop resume tips
MyFuture resume advice
3. Cover Letters
CAREERwise Education cover letter tips
MN DEED cover letter tips
MyFuture letter advice
4. Interviewing — This is your chance to sell your skills and abilities.
CAREERwise Education interviewing tips
MN DEED interviewing tips
CareerOneStop interviewing tips
MyFuture acing the interview
Practice Interviewing with InterviewStream
5. Follow up — Don’t forget to follow-up with whomever you had the interview.
CAREERwise Education follow-up tips
MN DEED follow-up tips
CareerOneStop follow-up tips
ON-THE-JOB EXPECTATIONS
You got a job. Now what?! Learn what is expected at your first job.
CAREERwise Education: how to succeed
College Planning
Earning College Credit During High School
Once you’ve selected your desired career and determined its educational requirement include college, you can start working towards that goal. You could consider taking courses in your designated career pathway, acquiring college credits while in high school and/or reviewing testing and admission requirements for colleges.
college planning
In addition to the requirements and electives offered at PHS, college-level courses are available to students while in high school. Download this 1-page sheet on the current offerings.
Standard College Entrance Exams
The ACT and SAT are the primary entrance exams used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. They are multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper tests, and can also include writing/essay options.
The purpose of these tests are to measure a high school student's readiness for college and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. College admissions officers will review standardized test scores alongside your high school GPA, the classes you took in high school, letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors, extracurricular activities, admissions interviews, and personal essays. How important text scores are in the college application process varies from school to school.
Should I take the ACT or the SAT?
Most colleges and universities will accept scores from either the SAT or ACT, and do not favor one test over the other. That said, college-bound students are increasingly taking both the SAT and ACT. Changes made to the SAT in 2016 have made it easier than ever to prep for both tests concurrently—and earn competitive scores on both! The best way to decide if taking the SAT, ACT, or both tests is right for you is to take a timed full-length practice test of each type. Since the content and style of the SAT and ACT are very similar, factors like how you handle time pressure and what types of questions you find most challenging can help you determine which test is a better fit.
Overall, the higher you score on the ACT and/or SAT, the more options for attending and paying for college will be available to you.
When should I take the ACT or SAT?
Most high school students take the ACT, SAT, or both during the spring of their junior year or fall of their senior year. It's important to leave time to re-take the test if you need to raise your score before you apply to college. Find the national ACT exam dates and SAT exam dates.
Pre-ACT — The Pre-ACT test gives students the opportunity to practice for the ACT test with a shortened version of the test. It provides scores on the ACT on the 1-36 scale, as well as a full view of students’ college and career readiness by identifying areas of strength and areas that need improvement. Information from the Pre-ACT will be used by the students to work within the ACT Academy, an online learning tool that allows students to take periodic quizzes, track scores, and receive targeted practice in areas of deficiency.
PSAT — All juniors are eligible to take the PSAT exam (Preliminary SAT). The exam is held in October on the nationally designated test date. Students must pay for this exam. This is the only exam that can qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Students who are planning on attending a four-year college right out of high school are encouraged to take the exam. Parents and students will receive more information about the PSAT via email in the fall.
ACT — Any junior who plans on attending a four-year college right out of high school can sign up to take the ACT through on the designated test date set by the state of MN. When taken through the school district, the exam is free of charge. Seniors who did not choose to test as juniors are eligible to take the ACT as seniors. Parents and students will receive an informational letter and deadline for sign up via email in the spring.
There are 4 sections to the ACT: English, Reading, Math and Science. There is also an optional 40-minute writing test.
How long is the ACT? The ACT is 2 hours and 55 minutes long. If you choose to take the ACT with Essay, the test will be 3 hours and 35 minutes long.
How is the ACT scored? Each section of the ACT is scored on a 1 to 36 point scale. Your composite ACT score is the average of your four section scores, also on a scale from 1 to 36. If you take the ACT with writing test, you will receive a separate score on the writing test.
Free Practice Resources
ACT Academy
ACT Math test tips
SAT — Register directly on their website
There are 2 sections to the SAT: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math. The Evidence-Based Reading and Writing is comprised of two tests, one focused on Reading and one focused on Writing & Language. There is also an optional essay test.
How long is the SAT? The ACT is 3 hours and 15 minutes long. If you choose to take the SAT with Essay, the test will be 3 hours and 50 minutes long.
How is the SAT scored? The SAT is based on a 1600-point scale, with 2 sections—Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, each scored between 200 and 800. The optional essay is evaluated separately.
Athletic Participation in College NCAA
If you are planning to enroll in college as a first-year student and you wish to participate in NCAA Division I, Division II, or Division III athletics, you must be certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center . This registration process ensures consistent application of NCAA initial – eligibility requirements for all prospective student athletes at all member institutions. Requirements for eligibility are very specific and rigid. It is the responsibility of all prospective NCAA Division I, Division II, and Division III student athletes at Pillager High School to familiarize themselves with these requirements and create a Certification Account with the NCAA.
If students have any questions regarding eligibility, contact Mrs. Turner. Access information on eligibility by going to the NCAA Eligibility Center. Students may also download the current Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete from the NCAA’s website. PHS courses that are NCAA approved are denoted by the NCAA logo on the registration guide. For year-long courses the NCAA counts it as one core. For semester long courses, NCAA counts it as .5 of a core.
Students need a minimum of 16 core courses for eligibility (4 years x 4 cores).