Great news, Seniors and Parents! The Idaho LAUNCH Final Offers have officially been sent out. To secure your funding, you must complete the state's verification process as soon as possible.
1. Accept Your Official Offer
Check your email for your Official Offer. You must click "Accept" by the deadline specified in that email to move forward.
2. Set Up Your Grant Management Account
The official offer email contains instructions for creating an account in the Grant Management Platform. This is how Idaho LAUNCH tracks and sends your funds.
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Identity Verification: You will need a valid driver’s license to verify your account.
- ⚠️ Important Note: Vertical driver’s licenses expire on your 18th birthday. Please update your license immediately if it has expired to avoid verification delays.
3. Complete Your Career Pathway Plan
Log in to Next Steps Idaho and ensure your Career Pathway Plan is marked as complete. The state cannot release grant money until this step is finished. - ⚠️ Important Note: The Career Pathway plan must be finished in order to complete the acceptance! Get this done asap!
4. Upload Your Diploma (After Graduation)
Once you graduate, you must upload a copy of your diploma to the management platform. This is the final step required for the state to release funds to your chosen school.
💡 Need Support?
Ms. Bauer is here to help you cross the finish line! Here is how you can get assistance with your Idaho LAUNCH steps:
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Individual Check-ins: Ms. Bauer will be calling students down over the next few weeks to walk through the process together.
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Schedule a Meeting: Can't wait? Schedule a meeting here to get your questions answered sooner.
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Graduation Week Support: She will also be available in the office during Diploma Pick-Up Week specifically to help you upload your final diploma to the platform.
Quick Tip: Be sure to check your school email daily—this is the primary way the state and the Career Center communicate these urgent deadlines.
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For students interested in an accelerated academic path, the CWI OtterBound program offers the opportunity to earn an Associate Degree concurrently with a high school diploma. This is a rigorous option designed for highly motivated students with clear academic goals.
Key Program Information:
Because this is an official College of Western Idaho degree, CWI manages the program guidelines and tracks all academic progress. Your first step is to meet with a CWI Advisor to build your college plan. They will then coordinate with your high school counselor to ensure your college courses align with your high school graduation requirements, pathways, and electives.
Is OtterBound Right for You?
To be eligible, students must have:
- A cumulative high school GPA of 2.5+.
- A chosen CWI major/degree program.
- Completed (or in progress) at least one CWI course.
How to Get Started:
If you meet these requirements, your first step is to reach out to CWI to begin the planning process:
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4/21/2026 Idaho Army National Guard |
Don’t miss this section! It’s packed with helpful resources, exciting events, and tools to support you every step of the way! |
Ms. Bauer will be visiting Senior Language Arts classes on April 27 (A Day) and April 28 (B Day) to go over important graduation details. During this time, we will:
- Confirm how you want your name read at graduation (must match an approved version in PowerSchool—talk with your parents about including your middle name)
- Collect phonetic spelling of names to ensure accurate pronunciation
- Complete the KSD Senior Exit Survey
- Collect scholarship totals
- Review the Senior Timeline
Seniors: Please make sure you are checking your school email daily—this is our primary way of sharing important information with you.
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Congratulations on taking the first step toward securing your Idaho LAUNCH funding! Accepting your contingent offer is a huge milestone, but there are a few critical steps you must complete to ensure those funds are actually released to your school.
1. Complete Your Career Pathway Plan
You must complete your Career Pathway Plan via Next Steps Idaho. If this is not finished, the state cannot release your grant money. Log in and make sure this is marked as complete!
2. Watch for Your OFFICIAL Offer
Keep a close eye on your email. You will receive an Official Offer soon, and you must click "Accept" by the deadline listed in that email.
3. Set Up Your Grant Management Account
The official offer email will also include instructions on how to create an account in the Grant Management Platform.
- This platform is how Idaho LAUNCH tracks where to send your money.
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Identity Verification: You will need to verify your account with a valid driver’s license.
- ⚠️ PRO TIP: Remember that your vertical driver’s license expires on your 18th birthday! Make sure you get your updated license as soon as possible so your verification isn't delayed.
4. Upload Your Diploma (Post-Graduation)
Once you graduate, you must upload a copy of your diploma to the management platform. This is the final "green light" the state needs to send the funds.
Need Help? I will be in the office during Diploma Pick-Up Week specifically to help you with the upload process. Stop by and we can get it done together!
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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. |
We are excited to feature Corbin Black, a 2019 Kuna High grad who has built a dynamic career by combining a strong work ethic with his passion for community and coaching.
After graduation, Corbin took a direct path into the workforce, focusing on technical and trade training. While at Kuna, he earned certifications in welding and automotive technology. Although he eventually moved into the business side of things, those technical skills didn't go to waste—Corbin now spends his summers racing cars at the Meridian Speedway!
Corbin started his career as a sales representative for a small company and steadily worked his way up. Today, he serves as a Sales Rep/Assistant Category Analyst for Stein Beverage Distribution.
But his impact doesn’t stop at the warehouse or the sales floor. Corbin also returns to the mats as an Assistant Wrestling Coach at Centennial High School, giving back to the sport and the community.
When asked what he enjoys most about his career, Corbin highlighted the human element: "Getting to meet new people and build relationships built on trust and knowledge."
Corbin shared powerful advice for current Kavemen navigating their own paths, emphasizing that one should never give up or be held back by a career that lacks joy; instead, he encourages finding a path that doesn’t even feel like work. Regarding character, he stresses the importance of treating everyone with compassion, staying attentive and respectful, and never talking down to others, as you never know what someone else might be going through. Reflecting on his own resilience after navigating two different layoffs, Corbin highlights the necessity of persistence, urging others to always strive to be their best in every endeavor while letting the past stay in the past and focusing on the opportunities of today.
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Are you interested in a high-demand career where you can earn while you learn? Join us for an upcoming Trades Open House hosted by the College of Western Idaho (CWI)!
This is a fantastic opportunity to tour the professional labs for Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing, speak directly with potential employers, and learn how to start your career debt-free. Whether you are ready to enroll or just curious about what the trades have to offer, all are welcome!
Event Details:
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When: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
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Time: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
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Where: Canyon County Center, Room 152 (HVAC Lab)
- 2407 Caldwell Blvd, Nampa, ID 83651
Why Attend?
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Explore in-demand trade careers that are vital to our community.
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Tour the labs and see the tools and technology students use every day.
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Connect with industry professionals and learn about apprenticeship pathways.
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Learn about "Earn While You Learn" models that lead to stable, well-paying jobs.
Questions? For more information, visit cwi.edu/wd or contact CWI Workforce Development at wd@cwi.edu or 208-562-2700.
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Interested in health care? Join us for an evening of exploration and inspiration at the High School Career Festival hosted by St. Luke’s Health System!
This is a unique, "behind-the-scenes" opportunity for students to meet healthcare professionals from dozens of specialties, ask questions about their daily work, and discover the many different paths available in the medical field.
Event Details:
Why Attend?
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Network: Connect directly with leaders and professionals from across St. Luke’s.
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Explore: Learn about a wide variety of healthcare specialties.
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Fun & Prizes: Enjoy snacks and a lively atmosphere—plus, students can enter to win AirPods! 🎧
Parking & Drop-Off:
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Parking: Available at the JUMP facility. Enter off Myrtle St. (between 10th and 11th), park on the 4th floor, and take the glass elevator to the 5th floor.
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Drop-Off: Enter off Myrtle St., turn right toward the outside lobby doors, and look for the tall "DROP OFF" sign.
Note: This is a non-KSD sponsored event. Participation, including registration, transportation, and fees, is the responsibility of the student/parent.
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Interested in engineering or computer science? STEM Gems is returning to Boise State University this summer, and registration is now open!
This inclusive, two-day overnight program gives students a "voyage of discovery" through hands-on workshops led by industry professionals and BSU college students.
The Details:
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Who: Current 9th, 10th, and 11th-grade students.
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When: June 12–13, 2026.
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Where: Boise State University (Students will stay overnight in a campus dorm!).
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Cost: The program is proudly supported by sponsors like Westmark Credit Union and Idaho National Laboratory to keep STEM accessible.
What’s Included?
- 🏠 Overnight housing in BSU dorms.
- 🍕 All meals (lunch, dinner, snacks).
- 🛠️ Hands-on STEM activities and workshops.
- 🎁 Exciting prizes and the chance to meet mentors from the Society of Women Engineers.
How to Join:
Space is limited to only 55 students, so don’t wait!
Note: This is a non-KSD sponsored event. Participation, including registration, transportation, and fees, is the responsibility of the student/parent.
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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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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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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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First Interstate Bank and their financial education partner, Banzai, are offering two $2,500 scholarships to help students prepare for their future. This is a fantastic opportunity for high schoolers to build real-world financial skills while earning money for college or trade school!
Who Can Apply?
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High school juniors and seniors (must be at least 16 years old).
- Students planning to enroll in an accredited college, university, or trade/technical school by the 2030–2031 academic year.
How to Enter:
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Learn: Create a free account on Banzai (via Clever or a teacher’s class code) and complete two Banzai games.
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Write: Submit a short essay (350–500 words) on why financial literacy matters or how you will use what you’ve learned.
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Apply: Submit your application through The University Network (TUN) portal.
Deadline: Applications must be submitted by April 30, 2026.
Pro-Tip: Financial literacy is a skill that lasts a lifetime. Encourage your student to dive into the interactive scenarios in the Banzai games to get a head start on their essay!
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The Horatio Alger Career & Technical Education (CTE) Scholarship is now open and will award up to $2,500 to eligible students. These funds can support tuition, childcare, transportation, supplies, and other educational expenses.
Key Highlights: (National Career & Technical Scholarship)
- Up to $2500 in funding
- Have completed high school (or equivalency) by July 1
- For students pursuing an associate degree, certificate, or diploma program by September
- Must demonstrate financial need (household income of a $100,000 or less)
- Open to U.S. citizens under age 35
Priority Deadline: is June 15, 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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