To my Kuna School District family,
At the end of this school year, I will be leaving KSD to begin a new adventure. I am getting married and relocating to Tennessee!
I began my career in the Kuna School District in 2007, and for many years, I truly believed I would retire here. Kuna is where I grew as an educator, a career counselor, and a leader. Most importantly, it is where I learned the true meaning of serving students and families.
While life is taking me in a new direction, this move is incredibly bittersweet. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the trust you placed in me to help guide the growth and futures of your students. They have touched my life in ways I will carry forever. Kuna High School has been more than a workplace—it has been my community and my family. As we like to say, “Once a Kaveman, Always a Kaveman.”
Warmest Regards,
Ms. Angelie Bauer
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I am thrilled to announce that our College and Career department is getting a "facelift" for the coming year! We have a fantastic transition plan in place to ensure our students continue to receive top-tier support.
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Laura Turner will be taking over this role. Laura has been a KHS English Language Arts teacher for 10 years and has served as a CAST advisor. She has a deep passion for student success and has been "learning the ropes" alongside me. I am confident she will bring fresh ideas while carrying on our great traditions.
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Mrs. Juli Stringfield (Counselor) will be managing all AO duties starting next year. We are working together to finish this school year strong, but starting next fall, all AO funding questions and concerns should be directed to her.
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While Spring Break is a well-deserved time to relax and recharge, it is also the perfect opportunity to make progress on your post-high school goals without the pressure of daily classes. Whether you are graduating in a few months or just starting your journey, here is how you can use this week effectively:
For Seniors: Crossing the Finish Line
Now is the time to finalize your next steps. Use this week to:
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Complete College Plans: Ensure your intent to enroll is submitted and check your student portals for any missing tasks.
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Finalize Financial Aid: Double-check your FAFSA status and apply for local scholarships.
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Compare Offers: Take a final look at your options to ensure you’re making the best decision for your future.
For Underclassmen: Exploration & Growth
It’s never too early to start looking ahead!
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Explore Schools: Research colleges, trade schools, or certificate programs that align with your interests.
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Build Your Resume: Colleges and employers look for more than just grades. Consider how you can gain experience through volunteering, part-time work, or job shadowing in a field you enjoy.
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Document Your Success: Start a "Brag Sheet" or resume to track your extracurriculars and leadership roles while they are fresh in your mind.
Enjoy your break, and come back ready to finish the year strong!
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Kuna High School is offering the ASVAB test right here on campus for 10th- 12th grade students. Don’t miss your chance to explore your strengths and future career options.
Test Date: Tuesday March 31, 2026 (A Day)
Time: 7:30–9:00 AM
Location: KPAC Foyer
What to Bring: A fully charged Chromebook (test is digital)
The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a multiple-choice test designed to help students:
- Explore Careers: Discover strengths and match them with civilian or military career paths.
- Military Qualification: Required for enlistment and helps determine job placement in the armed services.
- Skill Assessment: Provides insight into abilities in math, science, reading, and mechanics—even for students not pursuing the military.
- No Obligation: Taking the ASVAB does not commit a student to military service.
Important for Swan Falls Students:
If you have 1st & 2nd period at Swan Falls on A Days, you’ll remain in the Career Center after the test if you don’t drive or have a ride back to Swan Falls for 2nd period.
Registration Closes: Friday March 27, 2026
**Students MUST be logged into their StudentSquare to access the registration. Parents, please view the event but DO NOT submit for your student. Student names and emails need to be collected**
STUDY RESOURCES
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The Coast Guard will host a lunch table in the Commons on the first Thursday of each month. Stop by to say hello and learn about the opportunities the Coast Guard offers!
March 24
- Army Lunch Table
- Marines Lunch table
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Don’t miss this section! It’s packed with helpful resources, exciting events, and tools to support you every step of the way! |
IDAHO LAUNCH Contingent Offer Recipients:
You need to make sure that you have completed your Career Portfolio before May 1.
- Log in to your Next Steps Idaho Account
- Locate the Idaho LAUNCH Career Pathway Portfolio bundle
- Compete the 4 activities in the bundle.
If you would like to meet with Ms. Bauer one-on-one, please schedule an appointment using the link at the bottom of this newsletter. Otherwise, seniors can expect to be called down starting next week.
Let’s finish strong, Class of 2026! 💚
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It’s not too late to apply and be considered in the next round of offers. Complete your application here:
Apply & Learn More:
LAST ROUND DEADLINE: APRIL 15th!
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Our Kaveman Spotlight shares stories, advice, and tips from current students and alumni to inspire Kavemen as they explore college, careers, and life after high school. If you know an alumni to spotlight please have them email abauer@kunaschools.org. |
Deborah Kay Durrant Zufelt built her career around her deep-seated desire to serve others and a long-standing love for science. After discovering her passion for biology and chemistry at Kuna High School, she pursued a path in healthcare to turn those interests into a lifelong vocation. Today, she serves her community as a Registered Nurse at Weiser Memorial Hospital, where she provides essential care in a rural setting.
Deborah is a dedicated RN who strategically navigated her educational path to enter the workforce efficiently. She completed her prerequisites at Boise State University while commuting from home, eventually choosing BSU’s Associate Degree in Nursing program to jumpstart her career. Her decision to work in rural healthcare was sparked when she and her spouse moved to Payette; after interviewing with several facilities, she fell in love with the "small town ideal" of serving a close-knit community.
The versatility of rural nursing has allowed Deborah to become a true generalist in her field. Working the night shift, she finds immense fulfillment in the variety of her work—one moment she is assisting a new mother in labor and delivery, and the next she is caring for a 100-year-old patient in med/surg or treating emergency room arrivals. For Deborah, the reward lies in the breadth of people she supports during every shift.
Deborah shares this practical advice for students: use aptitude tests to identify your natural strengths and seek out job shadowing opportunities to see what different careers actually look like day-to-day. She emphasizes that success in nursing requires a commitment to lifelong learning and a mindset focused on service rather than just a paycheck. Her professional philosophy is simple but profound: maintain an attitude of constant growth and enter every shift with the goal of helping others.
Outside of the hospital, Deborah finds joy in spending time with her family, hiking, and traveling to new destinations. She lives by the personal mission to "make someone smile every day." Her journey demonstrates that by matching one's academic interests with a heart for service, it is possible to build a diverse and deeply rewarding career that anchors a community.
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You are cordially invited to an exclusive admissions event for West Point. This is a unique opportunity to learn about life as a Cadet and the process of joining one of the nation’s premier leadership institutions.
During this presentation, West Point representatives will cover:
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The West Point Advantage: Why it stands as a top-tier choice for character growth and academic rigor.
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The Cadet Experience: A look into the daily balance of high-level academics, athletics, and leadership training.
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The Application Roadmap: Clear steps and tips to navigate the application process successfully.
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Location: Len B. Jordan Building, Suite 307 (3rd Floor), 650 W State St, Boise, ID 83702
Space is limited! Interested students and families should REGISTER HERE as soon as possible to secure a spot.
**This event is not sponsored by the Kuna School District (KSD). Students and families are responsible for their own transportation and any associated costs.
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Now Hiring Part Time Seasonal Parks Employees. The Parks and Recreation department is seeking seasonal part time employees.
We are seeking potential part-time who are at least 18 years old. The salary for this position is $18.54 an hour. This position is seasonal and part time. If you are interested or have any questions please contact Nancy Stauffer at 208-922-5546 extension 7735 or by email at nstauffer@kunaid.gov.
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Curious about a career in law enforcement? The Ada County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) is hosting a Recruiting Open House for anyone interested in learning what it’s really like to serve our community.
Stop by to chat directly with teams from Patrol, Detention, Records, Security Control, and Court Services. Our HR team will also be on-site to break down the hiring process, pay scales, benefits, and background requirements.
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When: Wednesday, March 25th | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
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Where: ACSO Main Campus (7200 Barrister Dr, Boise, ID 83704)
Whether you are a student exploring future paths or a professional looking for a change, come get your questions answered and see where you fit in.
*This event is not sponsored by the Kuna School District (KSD). Students and families are responsible for their own transportation and any associated costs.
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Class of 2027, are you wondering what life looks like after high school? Stop guessing and start experiencing it with the CWI Summer Bridge Program!
This is a FREE, week-long deep dive into high-paying career paths
- Computer Science
- Health Sciences
- Advanced Manufacturing
WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND
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Hands-on Action: Forget boring lectures—get in the lab and the shop. Materials covered
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Industry Access: Go on exclusive tours to see how companies actually work.
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Pro Skills: Leadership workshops and career prep to beef up your resume.
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The Perks: Breakfast and lunch provided
THE DETAILS
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WHEN: July 20–24, 2026
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TIME: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
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WHERE: College of Western Idaho (Nampa Campus)
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COST: $0 (Free for registered students!)
REGISTER HERE (Space is limited! Don't wait):
- Go to: cwi.augusoft.net
- Create your CWI Workforce Development account
- Register for Summer Bridge Program, Click "Add to Cart", There is not cost to register so the total will be $0.
For questions email CWI CTE Transition Coordinator, Oster Hernandez (osterhernandez@cwi.edu).
*This event is not sponsored by KSD. Participants are responsible for their own registration and transportation.
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We are excited to share an incredible opportunity for current high school juniors — Idaho Syringa Girls State! This immersive, week-long leadership program gives young women the chance to learn how state and local government works, build leadership skills, and form lasting friendships with peers from across Idaho.
🗓 Program Dates: June 14–19, 2026
📍 Location: Northwest Nazarene University, Nampa, ID
💡 Eligibility: High school juniors with at least one semester remaining in high school
How to Apply
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Contact your school counselor or your local American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) unit to express interest and be informed about interview opportunities. If you are unaware of which ALA unit you belong to, please fill out the information necessary on this form and we will connect you with your local unit.
- After completing the interview with the ALA, fill out the Idaho Syringa Girls State Registration Form (parent/guardian helps complete this).
- Once your registration is submitted, you will receive email instructions about next steps for delegates.
📅 Delegate Deadline: April 15, 2026
📩 Questions? Contact the Idaho Syringa Girls State Session Coordinator at IdahoALAGSSecretary@gmail.com for details about applications and interviews.
Girls State is an outstanding leadership opportunity for young women interested in government and civic engagement. If your student is interested, please have them stop by the Counseling Office for next steps!
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We are looking for Idaho’s next generation of leaders! Applications are now open for the 2026 Gem Boys State session, held at Gowen Field in Boise from May 31 to June 5, 2026.
This elite leadership program transforms high school juniors into active citizens. Participants spend a week at Gowen Field building a mock government, running for office, and learning the inner workings of our democracy. It is a premier addition to any college or military academy resume.
⚡ Key Information:
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Who: Current high school juniors.
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Cost: $500.00 (Includes all lodging, meals, and materials).
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Capacity: Strictly limited to the first 120 delegates.
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Urgency: Once the 120-limit is reached, we will institute a stand-by list. Early submission is critical.
📅 Important Dates & Process:
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Application Deadline: Friday, April 10th.
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Selection: Once applications are submitted, the local American Legion office will review and select the final applicants who will represent our community.
How to Apply: Please see Ms. Bauer in the Career Center to pick up your application and get started.
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Are you 16+ and looking for a fun summer job? Roaring Springs and Wahooz are now hiring for the upcoming season! Gain valuable work experience in a team-based environment with plenty of leadership opportunities.
🍦 Employee Perks:
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Free Season Pass for all active employees
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50% Off Food while on shift
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Discounted Tickets for friends and family
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Flexible Schedules and Scholarships
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Employee-only parties and more!
Apply Today:
Ready to join the team? Click the links below to submit your application:
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Financial Aid & Scholarships |
Scholarships will open in February and are due by March 1.
These scholarships are exclusively for Kuna High School students and will be awarded in May during Senior Awards Night.
- Matthew Scanlon Memorial Scholarship
- Tracy Edwards Memorial Scholarship
- Dual Language Scholarship
- E.P.I.C Scholarship
- Financial Responsibility Scholarship
- Stephen Newton Memorial Scholarship
- Zane Newman Special Education Memorial Scholarship
- Wellness and Resiliency Scholarship
Applications can be dropped off in the Career Center with Ms. Bauer.
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- Closing Soon
- Idaho Scholarships
- Scholarship Idaho
- 2-Year College Scholarships
- 4-Year College Scholarships
- Career Technical Scholarships
- And more!
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The Lightfoot Foundation provides needs-based scholarships to students in the Treasure Valley who are pursuing education beyond high school.
Award Amount: $500–$4,000 (renewable)
Eligible for college or trade school, in or out of state.
Who Can Apply:
- Students graduating from or who have graduated from a high school (or earned a GED)
- Must reside in an approved city or town within the Treasure Valley (including Kuna, Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, and surrounding communities)
Application Window:
🗓 Opens March 1, 2026
⏰ Closes after 50 applications are received or April 15, 2026 (whichever comes first)
Important Application Notes:
- All required documents must be scanned into ONE document
- Incomplete or separate files will not be considered
- Parent and student current-year tax information is required
- If the student did not file taxes, a signed statement must be included
🔗 More Info & Apply:
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The LiNae Bauscher Foundation was created to honor an amazing woman whose grace, strength, and compassion touched countless lives in the Treasure Valley. Inspired by LiNae's legacy, the foundation works to empower communities, raise awareness for ALS, and provide meaningful support to individuals and families in need.
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Kids’ Chance of Idaho is accepting scholarship applications!
To apply, please download and complete our Scholarship Application.
Eligibility
- Applicant must be between 16-25 years of age.
- Must be an Idaho resident.
- Has a parent who sustained a serious work-related injury or fatality for which the parent was
- entitled to receive benefits under Idaho’s Workers’ Compensation Law.
- Proceeds must be used for tuition, fees, housing, books, and required supplies. Proceeds will be
- paid directly to the educational institution.
- Scholarships are awarded for one year.
Submission requirements:
- Submission of complete application.
- Application deadline: April 15.
Mail to: Kids Chance of Idaho
1703 W. Hill Rd.
Boise, ID 83702
Email to: info@kidschanceofidaho.org
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The Taylor LEAD Scholarship recognizes graduating seniors who demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics, leadership, and community service. The program is expanding statewide and is open to eligible students in IDHSAA Districts III & IV for the 2025–26 school year.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Minimum 3.5 GPA
- Participation in two (2) sanctioned high school sports
- Demonstrated community service
- Plans to enroll full-time in a post-secondary program
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Two recommendations required (one coach, one teacher)
🗓 Applications Open: February 2 – April 10
📣 Award Notifications: May 4 – May 8
📧 Questions: hello@taylorleadscholarship.com
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Scholarship applications are now open for:
- Graduating high school seniors
- Current college or vocational students
- Military spouses
This is a great opportunity to receive financial support for tuition, books, and other educational expenses.
Whether you’re preparing to graduate, continuing your college journey, pursuing a trade or vocational program, or supporting your family as a military spouse, there are scholarship opportunities available for you.
⏰ Application Deadline: March 30th
See the attached flyer for more information!
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The Idaho Cattlewomen are pleased to announce the 2026 Idaho Cattle Women and Western Stockmen's & Simplot Livestock Scholarship applications are now available. These two scholarships are a wonderful opportunity for those individuals looking to further their education in agricultural studies.
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The Auto Ranch Foundation offers scholarships for graduating seniors from rural Southwest Idaho and Eastern Oregon pursuing careers in automotive, agricultural, technical, mechanical, or related fields.
Eligibility:
- Graduating senior with 2.0 GPA or higher
- Demonstrated community involvement and financial need
- Intended major in an eligible field
Application Requirements Include:
- Completed application
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official high school transcript
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One-page personal essay outlining goals and how the scholarship will help
🗓 Apply Jan. 1 – March 31 (No applications after April 15)
📬 Mail to Auto Ranch Foundation, Meridian, ID
📢 Recipients notified by May 31
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Idaho Latino Scholarship Foundation is now open and partnering with Scholars App to manage this scholarship application. Students can create an account, save their progress, return as needed, and receive reminders if their application is incomplete.
The scholarship is now open with a March 31, 2026 deadline for the 2026–27 school year.
Matching and specialized awards are available, including scholarships for:
- College of Western Idaho
- The College of Idaho
- Northwest Nazarene University
- Students pursuing STEM
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DACA students
- Students from farmworker families
Students should select all categories they may qualify for when completing the application. A flyer with scholarship details is included.
Questions? Contact info@idaholsf.com
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Idaho Power is offering several scholarship opportunities for graduating seniors and current college students who live in Idaho Power’s service area.
• 14 scholarships of $2,500
• For graduating seniors planning to enroll full-time in a STEM, business, or communications program
• Must attend an accredited Idaho or Oregon two- or four-year college/university
• Minimum unweighted GPA: 3.75
• 2 scholarships of $2,500
• For students enrolling in an accredited Idaho technical school to learn a skilled trade (linework, electrical, welding, mechanical, applied technology, and more)
• Minimum GPA: 2.75 or GED
• 2 scholarships of $1,000
• Open to:
Graduating seniors enrolling in an engineering program at an accredited Idaho college, or
College students at any level enrolling in a natural resources program at an accredited Idaho college
📅 Selection Timeline
Scholarship recipients will be selected in April 2026. All applicants will be notified by email.
📧 Questions?
Contact: IdahoPowerScholarships@idahopower.com
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The College of Idaho is offering an exciting scholarship competition for prospective students! The Kathryn Albertson Scholarship Competition gives high school seniors the chance to earn significant financial support toward their college education.
⭐ What You Need to Know
- Open to: High school seniors who have applied to The College of Idaho
- GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0 GPA
- When: Held each February on campus
- Slots are limited (only about 200 available) — so register early!
💰 Scholarship Awards
- $2,500 per year for winners
- $1,000 per year for runners-up
- $500 per year for every competitor who participates
This competition is a great way for students to highlight their academic achievement and stand out during the college planning process. Whether students are considering The College of Idaho or already admitted, this is a valuable opportunity to earn renewable scholarship funds.
📅 How to Participate
- Students must sign up to reserve a date and time in February — spots fill up quickly!
📩 Questions?
Contact the College of Idaho Office of Admission:
✉️ admission@collegeofidaho.edu
📞 (208) 459-5305
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The Honors Graduation “Build A Better Future” Scholarship is now open!
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Awards: Five seniors will each earn $10,000, plus one project will receive an additional $5,000 to continue their community initiative.
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Eligibility: Any senior heading to an accredited U.S. college, university, or trade school. All students welcome!
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Project: Design and carry out a community improvement project using the LAUNCH Cycle design thinking framework.
🗓️ Key Dates:
- Optional Strategy Plan for feedback: March 9, 2026
- Final Application: April 13, 2026 (11:59 PM MT)
- Winners Notified: By May 1, 2026
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The Eve Devitt Fund awards up to three high school seniors each year who have demonstrated outstanding work advancing human rights in Idaho. The $2,500 merit-based scholarship can be used for expenses related to college, trade school, or a gap year—in Idaho or out of state.
While merit-based, priority is given to LGBTQ+ and BIPOC students with financial need.
🗓 Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
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Rising juniors and seniors: the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) lets eligible students from participating Western states pay no more than 150% of in-state tuition at 170 public colleges—opening more out-of-state options at lower costs!
Check out these free tools:
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Looking for ways to pay for college and gain valuable experience? The Idaho Army National Guard can help you do both!
✅ Tuition Assistance & Scholarships — Up to $20,000 toward your education
✅ Monthly Pay — Earn $350+ while serving
✅ Commitment — Only 2 days a month and 2 weeks in the summer
✅ Full-Time Student — The rest of the time, focus on your studies—without student debt!
Interested?
📞 Contact SSG Michael Torres at 208-576-0535 (text or call)
It’s a smart way to build your future, gain experience, and graduate debt-free!
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Many companies offer tuition reimbursement, scholarships, or free college programs—a great way for high school seniors to earn income and support their education.
National Options: Starbucks, Walmart/Sam’s Club, Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, Amazon, Apple, AT&T, Bank of America, FedEx, Comcast (tuition coverage up to 100% or $5,250+ per year).
Boise-Area Opportunities: Starbucks, Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, Walmart/Sam’s Club, Target, Albertsons/Safeway, WinCo, Fred Meyer, Saint Alphonsus, Saint Luke’s Health System, and some local gyms/spas/salons.
💡 Tip: Ask about tuition assistance or scholarships when applying—some start on your first day! Check company websites for eligibility and application details.
🔍 Want to find more companies that pay for school?
Students can research online by searching for “tuition reimbursement programs”, “employee scholarships”, or “employer education benefits”. Check company websites or career pages for eligibility and application details.
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Next Step Idaho is a one-stop resource for students and families exploring life after high school. From career exploration and college planning to financial aid and scholarships, the site offers tools, guides, and information to help students make informed decisions and take actionable steps toward their future. Regularly visiting Next Step Idaho ensures families stay up-to-date on opportunities, deadlines, and resources to support postsecondary success.
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When creating your account, do NOT use the single sign-on option.
- Use a personal email to create your account.
- Use your school email only as the backup email.
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NSI Navigation – Idaho LAUNCH Career Pathway Plan
- Log in to NSI
- Click the green person icon at the top
- Select My Dashboard
- Click My Pathway Bundles
- Choose 12th Grade
- Open Idaho LAUNCH Career Pathway Plan Bundle
- Complete the Work Values Assessment & Reflection
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Save your work to the Pathway Plan Portfolio in NSI
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NSI Navigation
- Log in to NSI
- Click the green person icon at the top
- Select My Dashboard
- Click My Pathway Bundles
- Choose 11th Grade
- Open 11th Grade Pathway Plan Activities
- Complete the Interests and Career Development Pre-Reflection
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Save your work to the Pathway Plan Portfolio in NSI
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NSI Navigation – Idaho LAUNCH Career Pathway Plan
- Log in to NSI
- Click the green person icon at the top
- Select My Dashboard
- Click My Pathway Bundles
- Choose 10th Grade
- Open 10th Grade Pathway Plan Activities
- Complete the Khan Academy actvity
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Save your work to the Pathway Plan Portfolio in NSI
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NSI Navigation – Idaho LAUNCH Career Pathway Plan
- Log in to NSI
- Click the green person icon at the top
- Select My Dashboard
- Click My Pathway Bundles
- Choose 9th Grade
- Open 9th Grade Pathway Plan Activities
- Complete the Interests Profiler Assessment & Reflection
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Save your work to the Pathway Plan Portfolio in NSI
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College, Military & Career Contacts |
Set up a meeting with the College & Career team to discuss you or your student's specific goals.
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