Last week was packed with impactful experiences, starting with attending the Waypoint conference, where I gained valuable insights into the College and Career field and built meaningful professional connections. We kept the momentum going on Thursday by helping our seniors navigate Application Days, and I am excited to continue that hands-on support today, Monday. Looking ahead, this week promises to be just as busy and rewarding, highlighted by an upcoming field trip to Boise State University and our 5th Annual First Responder and Military Appreciation event on Friday, October 16th. I hope to see everyone there! |
Monday, October 12th: Senior College Application Days will take place during ELA classes. Have your accounts created and ready to go.
Thursday, October 15th: Mikayla from the University of Idaho will be visiting during lunch to chat with students about college life and answer questions.
Friday, October 16th: Representatives from the Army National Guard will host a lunch table in the Commons.
Friday, October 16th: Join us for our 5th Annual First Responder & Military Appreciation Night at the football game!
Monday, November 2nd: Course registration opens for CWI's spring semester. Dual credit students pursuing their GEM certificate or Associate's degree should be prepared and ready to register!
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If you missed Senior Application Days in the Commons, don't worry! You can still get the hands-on help you need to complete your college and trade school applications. Stop by the College & Career Center or schedule a 1-on-1 appointment with Mrs. Turner to get all your questions answered and get your applications submitted. Book appointment HERE. |
What Is Idaho LAUNCH?
Idaho LAUNCH is a state-funded grant program designed to help graduating high school seniors cover postsecondary education and workforce training costs. It pays 80% of in-state tuition and fees, up to a maximum award of $8,000 over the course of a qualifying program (with up to $4,000 available in the first year). The funds apply directly toward approved degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs for high-demand careers in Idaho.
How to Qualify
To be eligible for Idaho LAUNCH, students must meet the following criteria: Idaho State University
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Idaho Residency & Graduation: Be an Idaho resident and graduate from an accredited Idaho high school (public, charter, private), homeschool, or earn a GED.
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In-Demand Career Track: Enrolling in or applying to an eligible in-demand career program at an approved Idaho college, university, or training provider by the fall semester following graduation.
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Career Pathway Plan: Complete and submit a Career Pathway Plan through Next Steps Idaho.
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No GPA or Income Requirements: There are no minimum GPA requirements or financial need checks—eligibility is tied to residency, high school graduation, and choosing an approved career field.
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October 1: Application opens
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November 30: Priority deadline (funds are limited, so apply early)
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April 15: Application closes
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May 31: Career Pathway Plans due
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Attention Senior Students, Parents, and Guardians,
Navigating your student's final year of high school can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Kuna High School invites you to Parent University: Senior Edition—an evening designed to give you all the tools, resources, and information you need to support your senior's transition to graduation and beyond.
Event Details:
- Date: Monday, October 19th
- Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Location: Kuna High School
Whether your student is heading to college, entering the workforce, joining the military, or still exploring options, this event covers crucial topics to keep them on track:
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Financial Aid & Scholarships: Expert guidance on FAFSA completion and finding local/national scholarships.
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State Funding Programs: Breakdown of Idaho Launch and Next Steps Idaho resources.
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Graduation Status: Ensure your senior is meeting all credit and state requirements.
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Senior Events & Cap/Gown Orders: Stay in the loop on upcoming senior traditions, deadlines, and ordering graduation gear.
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Future Planning Representatives: Connect directly with college admissions reps and military recruiters.
Take advantage of this opportunity to get your questions answered by staff and specialists. We look forward to seeing you there and partnering with you for a successful senior year!
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Did you know Idaho LAUNCH can cover up to 80% of the cost to become a licensed real estate agent?
Through the Idaho Online Real Estate Academy, seniors can take the 90-hour, self-paced pre-licensing course for just $144 out of pocket (compared to thousands for traditional post-secondary routes). If you are self-motivated, enjoy working with people, and are interested in sales or running your own business, real estate offers a flexible alternative to a traditional 4-year college path.
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Key Deadline: November 30 (Idaho LAUNCH Priority Deadline)
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Format: 100% Online & Self-Paced
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Note: Students using LAUNCH funding must wait for funding confirmation before officially enrolling in the course.
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We are thrilled to announce that Kuna High School will host its 5th Annual First Responder and Military Appreciation Game on October 16, 2026 at Kuna High School. This tradition continues to grow each year, and we are eager to honor and celebrate even more first responders and military members, both past and present. This year’s event will be bigger and better than ever!
Mark your calendars: October 16, 2026 at the Kuna High School Football Game against the Borah Lions!
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Free BBQ Dinner: First responders, military members & their families – 5:00 PM
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Early Entry: First responders & military families – 5:00 PM
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Gates Open for Students & Fans: 6:00 PM
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On-Field Celebration: 6:30 PM
Basic Black & Gray shirts will also be sold during lunch the week of the game and at the game (while supplies last).
Special Attractions: Black Hawk helicopter, pregame ceremony, military & first responder vehicles, food trucks, and more!
If you know a first responder or military member, please share this invitation with them or have them email
Let’s fill the stands with appreciation—and matching gear!
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Do you know an outstanding military teen between the ages of 13 and 18? Operation Homefront is now accepting nominations for the 2027 Military Child of the Year® Awards, the nation’s premier recognition honoring the extraordinary achievements of military youth!
About the Award
These prestigious awards recognize outstanding young people who represent a branch of the armed forces (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Space Force). Candidates are selected based on their scholarship, volunteerism, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and resiliency through the unique challenges of military family life.
Award Package
Seven recipients—one representing each service branch—will receive:
- $10,000 cash prize
- A brand-new laptop and special gifts
- An all-expenses-paid 3-day trip to Washington, D.C. with a parent/guardian
- Official recognition at the April 2027 Gala presented by senior military leaders
How to Nominate
If you know an inspiring military teen who deserves recognition, submit a nomination today!
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Interested in seeing what life is like as a BYU-Idaho student? Join us for BYU-I Campus Day! This is a fantastic opportunity to tour the campus, explore academic programs, check out student housing, and get a real feel for campus culture and student life. Check out the flyer in the College & Career Center for event dates, schedule details, and registration info!
Please note: This is not a Kuna High School sponsored event. Students will need to complete their own registration and arrange their own transportation.
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Interested in a rewarding career in healthcare? The Boise State University School of Respiratory Care Sciences is offering two upcoming events for prospective students to explore their programs and get hands-on insight into the field!
BSU Respiratory Care Open House:
- Tour the labs and facilities, meet BSU faculty and current students, and learn about degree pathways in respiratory care.
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When: Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
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Where: BSU Health Sciences Riverside Building (950 S. Lusk Street, Boise, ID 83706)
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RSVP: Reserve your spot at bit.ly/3Wek4lk
Saint Alphonsus Clinical Exploration Day:
- Get an inside look at a real hospital clinical setting! See what a respiratory therapist does firsthand and connect directly with BSU faculty to get your questions answered.
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RSVP: Space is limited—reserve your spot at bit.ly/4wULKuZ
Please note: These are not Kuna High School sponsored events. Participants will need to complete their own registration and arrange their own transportation.
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Future Broncos, mark your calendars! Join Boise State University for Bronco Day on Saturday, November 7, 2026, to get a firsthand look at life as a BSU student.
Event Highlights
- Explore Academics & Student Life: Connect directly with academic departments, admissions, financial aid, and dining services.
- Tour Campus & Housing: Check out housing showrooms and take a campus tour led by current students.
- Walk on the Blue Turf: Step onto the iconic Blue Turf at Albertsons Stadium for a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity!
How to Attend
- Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
- Location: Boise State University
- Registration: Secure your spot online by visiting Boise State Bronco Day.
Please note: This is not a Kuna High School sponsored event. Participants will need to complete their own registration and arrange their own transportation.
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Financial Aid & Scholarships |
Applications are now open for the Elks Most Valuable Student (MVS) Contest! The Elks National Foundation is offering 500 four-year scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $7,500 per year, awarded based on academics, leadership, and financial need.
Most Valuable Student (MVS) Contest Details
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Deadline: November 12, 2026
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Eligibility: Current high school seniors (U.S. citizens) planning to pursue a four-year degree full-time at a U.S. college or university starting in Fall 2027.
- Requirements:
- You do not need to be related to a member of the Elks to apply.
- Male and female students compete separately.
- When applying, please select Nampa Elks Lodge #1389 as your sponsoring Lodge.
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How to Apply: Submit your application online at enf.elks.org/MVS.
Elks Legacy Awards
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Deadline: February 1, 2027 (Opens September 1, 2026)
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Details: Offers $4,000 scholarships (350 national awards available) specifically for high school seniors who are children or grandchildren of dues-paying Elk members.
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How to Apply: Visit enf.elks.org/Leg for details and application access.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to your school counselor or contact Kari Wallace, Nampa Elks Lodge Scholarship Chairman, at kariwallace6@gmail.com.
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Idaho Power is offering academic scholarships to support graduating high school seniors in their service area for the 2027–2028 school year!
Available Scholarships
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Academic Excellence Scholarship: Fourteen $2,500 awards for graduating seniors planning to enroll full-time in STEM, business, or communications at an accredited two- or four-year college/university in Idaho or Oregon. (Minimum 3.75 unweighted GPA required)
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Idaho Power Technical Scholarship: Two $2,500 awards for students planning to learn a skilled trade (linework, electric power, mechanical, welding, applied technology, etc.) at an accredited Idaho technical school. (Minimum 2.75 GPA or GED required)
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Company Memorial Scholarship: Two $1,000 awards for graduating seniors or incoming college freshmen enrolling in an engineering or natural resources program at an accredited Idaho college.
Key Details & Requirements
- Application Window: Opens January 1, 2027 | Deadline: March 1, 2027
- Requirements: Online application, official transcripts, and reference letters submitted through the online portal. (Hard-copy/mailed applications will not be accepted)
- Important Note: Awards are one-time (non-renewable) for the school year following the award and cannot be deferred.
- Questions? Contact Idaho Power directly at IdahoPowerScholarships@idahopower.com.
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Looking for ways to fund your post-secondary education or earn recognition for your leadership and patriotism? The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) offers several annual scholarship programs and contests for middle and high school students!
Featured Scholarship Programs
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Voice of Democracy: An audio-essay program open to high school students (grades 9–12). Express your views on a democratic and patriotic theme for a chance to win up to $35,000 in national scholarships.
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Patriot's Pen: An essay contest open to middle school students (grades 6–8) that encourages young minds to examine America’s history and modern society. State and national winners earn cash prizes, including a top prize of $5,000.
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Scout of the Year: Provides scholarships to registered, active members of the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts who have demonstrated exceptional citizenship and leadership skills.
How to Apply
Check eligibility requirements, essay prompts, and submission deadlines directly on the VFW Youth Scholarships page. Be sure to submit your entry through your local VFW Post before the fall deadlines!
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If you or someone you know is heading into the trades, here is a scholarship opportunity worth paying attention to: The mikeroweWORKS Work Ethic Scholarship Program.
Founded by Dirty Jobs host Mike Rowe, this program isn't about grade point averages or writing standard academic essays. It’s designed specifically to help close the skilled labor gap by funding training for high-demand vocational careers.
What Makes It Different?
Most scholarships look at GPA or athletic achievement. The Work Ethic Scholarship evaluates personal accountability and effort.
To apply, candidates must sign and write about the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge ("Skill & Work Ethic Aren't Taboo")—a 12-statement commitment focused on personal responsibility, a strong work ethic, safety, and taking pride in manual labor.
The Essentials at a Glance
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Who it’s for: High school seniors, graduates, or GED holders enrolled (or planning to enroll) in an approved vocational, trade, or technical program.
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Eligible programs: 2-year programs or shorter in fields like welding, automotive technology, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, diesel mechanics, and select technical healthcare roles (e.g., LPN, EMT).
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What’s excluded: Standard 4-year university/bachelor degree programs.
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What it covers: Direct costs for tuition, required textbooks, and program-required tools.
Key Application Requirements
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Sign the Pledge: Review and sign the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge and answer four short-essay questions.
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Video Pitch: Record a 45–60 second video explaining why you're passionate about your trade and deserve the grant.
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References & Proof: Provide two recommendations from teachers or supervisors, transcripts, and financial documentation.
Final Application Deadline: October 31, 2026 (at 11:59 PM PT)
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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. Turner.
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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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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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Did you know that local coffee breaks come with a student perk? Show your student ID at Latte' Da and score 10% off your favorite drink or treat! Whether you need a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon study boost, don't forget to flash that ID card at checkout to save a little green while you caffeine. |
The TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) program is a free college and career readiness program designed to help Kuna High School students succeed in their education and plan for life after graduation. Participants receive free academic advising, career exploration, college campus visits, SAT/ACT prep, and step-by-step assistance with college applications and financial aid.
Services Offered:
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Academic Advising & Tutoring Referrals: Stay on track for graduation and college readiness.
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College & Career Exploration: Experience guided college campus tours and learn about high-demand career paths.
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Financial Aid & Scholarship Guidance: Get hands-on help filing FAFSA forms and applying for scholarships.
How to Apply:
Kuna High School students can apply online using the TRIO ETS Student Application. Prefer a paper copy? Stop by the College & Career Center to pick up a physical application!
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Did you know you can complete your entire freshman year of college general education courses while still in high school? Through Idaho’s GEM (General Education Matriculation) framework, students can take 36 credits of core dual-enrollment classes that are guaranteed to transfer seamlessly to any Idaho public college or university! Earning your GEM Certificate allows you to knock out essential general education requirements early, saving you significant time and college tuition.
Interested in building a GEM pathway for your schedule? Stop by the College & Career Center or schedule a meeting with Ms. Turner to map out your courses and discuss using Advanced Opportunities funding to cover tuition costs!
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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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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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