Whether it’s a lack of motivation, lack of knowledge about the process, or improper planning, many students need help when preparing for college.  The process is daunting and students are increasingly looking to their teachers.

1. Push students to take AP classes, dual-enroll in college classes, or take an online class. With college-level class experience and credits underneath their belts, students are far more likely to attend college. Bolstered by confidence in their ability to succeed, students will be far more motivated to apply for college and more likely to thrive at the college level.
2. Take a field trip. Ideally, teachers would be able to take students on a tour of all local colleges and universities. However, if you do not have the resources to take a field trip, a virtual field trip will allow students to experience a taste of college. Similarly, presenting testimonies from past can allow student to see real-life examples of student success. Ask past students to Skype your class, send a video testimony, or even come in and speak.
3. Chart student progress and recognize students for excelling in both large and small ways. Almost everyone likes to see themselves grow.  Going beyond report cards, find ways to show students how they have progressed – how their writing abilities have increased, the growth of their ability to understand mathematic concepts and more. Regardless of the scope of achievement, recognize students for their accomplishments.
4. Ask students their goals and then help come up with a game plan. Students who may seem lacking in motivation are often overwhelmed and unaware of how to even begin taking on an endeavor such as college. For students who have never had a family member or parent attend college, post secondary education may seem like a dream. Sitting down with students, whether individually or in groups, and asking them to write out their goals or dreams for the future will show you how to better guide them in their chosen paths.
5. Slowly allow students to take ownership of their own education. Soon your students will (hopefully) graduate, and as their teacher, you will no longer be able to holding their hands through papers and tests. Prepare them for this transition by slowly letting go of the reins. Let students grade each other’s papers, come up with their own topics for reports, etc. Doing so will allow students to take ownership of their education.

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