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Kuna High School

Future Ready

November 13th

Posted Date: 11/13/26 (09:00 AM)

KHS CCR Logo

Kaveman Compass

Helping You Navigate Your Future

A white wooden background features autumn decorations and the text "November 13th".

From the Career Center

Looking Ahead!

It is hard to believe how fast November is flying by! Watching our students push through the school year, tackle their classes, and actively plan for their futures has been truly exciting. Their hard work and dedication every single day make our campus such an inspiring place to be.

As we look ahead, we are excited for the upcoming Thanksgiving break! No school will be held from Monday, November 23rd through Friday, November 27th. Having the entire week off is a wonderful opportunity for our students, staff, and families to recharge, slow down, and enjoy quality time with loved ones and friends.

A Quick Reminder: When we return from break, there will only be three weeks left until the end of the semester! Enjoy your time off, rest up, and come back ready to finish the semester strong.
 

Upcoming Events: Mark Your Calendars!

Mark your calendars for these upcoming military recruitment tables, college info sessions, and campus schedule notes throughout November and December!

Launch Application Help: All day on Friday, November 13th and Monday, November 16th.  Bring your computer, cell phone, and social security number to the Career Center: Room 110. 

ASVAB Interpretations: Thursday, November 19th during 2nd Period (9:06 AM – 10:30 AM) in Room 221 at KHS.

Thanksgiving Break (No School): Monday, November 23rd – Friday, November 27th 

Mrs. Turner Out of Office (Conference): Tuesday, December 1st – Saturday, December 5th (Career Center closed / limited availability during this time).

Lunch Tables
(Set up in the Commons during lunch periods)
  • Monday, November 16th: U.S. Army
  • Tuesday, December 1st: Air National Guard
  • Monday, December 7th: U.S. Army
  • Tuesday, December 8th: Army National Guard

Lunch & Learns
(Bring your lunch and meet in the Career Center to chat with university representatives)
  • Monday, November 16th: Northwest Nazarene University (NNU)
  • Tuesday, December 1st: Lewis and Clark State College (LCSC)
  • Thursday, December 3rd: University of Idaho (U of I)
  • Tuesday, December 8th: College of Western Idaho (CWI)

Senior Section

An infographic titled Seniors: Launch Application Checklist with six numbered steps, featuring a priority deadline of November 30th for steps one through three.

⚠️ Idaho LAUNCH Priority Deadline Reminder!

Mark your calendars! The priority deadline to apply for the Idaho LAUNCH grant is Monday, November 30th. Since funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, we strongly encourage all graduating seniors planning to pursue qualifying postsecondary education or workforce training to complete their applications as soon as possible. Don't miss out on securing up to $8,000 toward your future!
An informational flyer offering help for senior students with their Launch application, detailing drop-in dates on Friday the 13th and Monday the 16th in Room 110.

Launch Grant Explained

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

  • Idaho Residency & Graduation: Be an Idaho resident and graduate from an accredited Idaho high school (public, charter, private), homeschool, or earn a GED. 
  • 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. 
  • Career Pathway Plan: Complete and submit a Career Pathway Plan through Next Steps Idaho. 
  • 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. 

Here are the important dates for the Idaho LAUNCH program:
  • October 1: Application opens
  • November 30: Priority deadline (funds are limited, so apply early)
  • April 15: Application closes
  • May 31: Career Pathway Plans due
 

Celebrating Student Success: Next-Step Prize Winners!

Way to go, Kavemen! Students who completed all of their post-high school planning steps were recently entered into a drawing to win awesome prizes designed to help set them up for their future.

From dorm-room essentials to everyday tech, winners got to choose from prizes like a mini fridge, mini air fryer, mini Keurig, Amazon Echo Dots, and Tile keychains to keep track of their gear.

We are excited to congratulate our three lucky winners, who were thrilled to walk away with their new prizes! Thank you to all of our students who put in the work to complete their steps—keep up the momentum as you plan for life after graduation!

More winners will be drawn in January!  Finish the application  process as soon as possible to get a chance to win a great prize.  
  • Next Step Idaho
  • Apply Idaho
  • Scholarship Idaho
  • FAFSA
A promotional graphic titled NEXT STEPS WINNERS featuring three students who won prizes for completing FAFSA.
 

Free Spanish-Language Webinar: Completing the FAFSA® & Finding Free Money for College

Looking for ways to help pay for college? Join Sallie Mae for an informative webinar hosted in Spanish designed specifically for college-bound students and their families. 

During this session, experts will cover: 

  • Scholarship Strategies: Where to find scholarships and key tips on how to apply. 
  • Essay Writing: How to craft a winning scholarship essay. 
  • FAFSA® Guidance: Helpful tips and step-by-step information for completing the FAFSA® to secure free money for college. 

Event Details

  • Date: Wednesday, November 18 
  • Time: 5:30 PM MT (7:30 PM ET | 6:30 PM CT | 4:30 PM PT) 

Space is limited, so be sure to register early to guarantee your spot. Can't make it live? Go ahead and register anyway—everyone who signs up will receive a recording to watch whenever it fits their schedule. 

Opportunities

Earn $35 Each: Students & Parents Invited to Join the SPOTS Research Study

Researchers across three U.S. Children's Hospitals (Seattle Children's, Children's National, and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center) are conducting the Student Planning, Organization, and Time Management Study (SPOTS) to develop a new measure of organization, time management, and planning skills for middle and high schools to use. 
Who Can Participate?
  • Students: Currently in grades 6–12 at a U.S. school. 
  • Adults: One parent/caregiver and one teacher of the participating student. 
What’s Involved & Compensation
  • Quick Online Survey: Each participant completes a brief (10–15 minute) online questionnaire about the student's organization, time management, and planning skills. 
  • Compensation: Every individual who completes the questionnaire—student, caregiver, and teacher—will receive $35 for their time. Families also have the option to opt into extra surveys for up to an additional $110 per family. 
How to Get Started Interested parents and caregivers can learn more and express interest by filling out the SPOTS Study Inquiry Form. Once submitted, a study staff member will reach out with your surveys. 
For questions about the study, please contact study coordinators Lily Leitzinger at lily.leitzinger@cchmc.org or Elizabeth Kronthal at ekronthal@childrensnational.org. 
 

Paid Youth Opportunity: Tobacco/Vape Retail Environment Awareness Project Central District Health is recruiting high sc

Central District Health is recruiting high school-aged youth for a paid opportunity to explore the tobacco and vape retail environment in our local communities. Participants will assess community risk and protective factors and present their findings to local leaders and stakeholders—helping our community better understand how retail environments impact youth nicotine and substance use. This is a great way for students to gain hands-on research and leadership experience while getting paid to make a real impact! Check out the project flyer or sign up using the link provided to get involved.

 
An informational flyer from the Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation detailing Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) for students.
 

Inside Idaho’s Coolest Workplaces: Real Jobs, Real Skills, Real Impact!

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at top companies across Idaho? Ever wanted to drive high-tech machinery, build real-world solutions, or check out how huge systems operate up close?

Meet Idaho Jobs Explained — your ultimate backstage pass to exploring in-demand careers, discovering what people actually do at work every day, and figuring out what path is right for you.

🎥 What is Idaho Jobs Explained?
Idaho Jobs Explained is an interactive web series that takes you into real workplaces. Host Matthew Baltzell jumps right into the action — working alongside local professionals to show you the hands-on skills, tech, and teamwork needed for awesome careers.

Whether you’re interested in high-tech healthcare systems, underground mining operations, forestry, or mastering essential soft skills, this series gives you an authentic, inside look at what it takes to succeed.
  • Math at Work: Ever ask, "When am I ever going to use this math in real life?" The companion Math at Work series breaks down how real professionals use math every day to solve problems, build maps, and make high-stakes decisions.

For Community & Industry Partners: Help Build the Next Generation
Great workforce pipelines start with strong community connections. Idaho Jobs Explained relies on collaboration with local businesses, industry leaders, and educators to give students a realistic window into future careers.
By partnering with Idaho Public Television, your organization can:
  • Showcase Your Team: Give your passionate employees a platform to highlight their day-to-day work and inspire future talent.
  • Support Local Education: Help bridge the gap between classroom concepts and practical workplace applications.
  • Enjoy Easy Collaboration: The IdahoPTV production team works closely with you to design a smooth, safe filming plan that respects your workplace operations and safety guidelines.

"Participating in Idaho Jobs Explained gives partners an opportunity to highlight real employees, showcase meaningful work, and support the next generation of Idaho’s workforce."
— Eren Barker, Well-being Program Manager at St. Luke's

Get Involved or Learn More
Ready to explore or partner up with us? Contact the team to discuss filming opportunities or bring Idaho Jobs Explained into your school or community:
 

Nominations Open: 2027 Military Child of the Year® Awards! 🎖️

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!

 

Financial Aid & Scholarships

A promotional flyer for the Common App Scholarship, detailing eligibility requirements, a $2,000 value, and a deadline of December 15, 2026.
A promotional flyer for the Science Buddy Scholarship featuring two smiling students in lab coats holding beakers.

Scholarship Opportunity: Rural Idaho Scholarship at The College of Idaho

Seniors at Kuna High School are eligible for the Rural Idaho Scholarship! 

  • Award Package: $34,500\$34,500$34,500 annual institutional scholarship package with $6,000\$6,000$6,000 tuition for the upcoming academic year. 
  • Duration: Renewable for up to four years (provided students stay enrolled and maintain good academic standing). 
  • How to Apply: No separate scholarship application or interview required! Eligible students are automatically considered when applying through Apply Idaho or The College of Idaho Portal. 

 

Idaho Power Academic & Technical Scholarships Open Jan 1!

Idaho Power is offering academic scholarships to support graduating high school seniors in their service area for the 2027–2028 school year!

Available Scholarships
  • 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)
  • 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)
  • 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.
Visit  Idaho Power’s website (scroll to the Scholarships section) starting January 1st to apply!
 
Promotional flyer for The Home Depot Foundation Path to Pro Scholarship, featuring a construction worker carrying bricks.
 
KHS Scholarships

Kuna 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. Turner.
NSI Scholarship Discovery Center

NSI Scholarship Discovery Center


  • Closing Soon
  • Idaho Scholarships
  • Scholarship Idaho
  • 2-Year College Scholarships
  • 4-Year College Scholarships
  • Career Technical Scholarships
  • And more!
StudentScholarships.org
 

Save on Out of State College with WUE!


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:
Learn more and access resources at wiche.edu/wue
 

Graduate Debt-Free with the Idaho Army National Guard!

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!
 

Jobs that will Pay for your College Education

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.

General Information

Fun to Know: Fuel Your Study Sessions for Less! ☕✨

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.
 

Earn Credit & Recognition for Your Language Skills with the Seal of Biliteracy

Infographic outlining the four steps to earn the Idaho Seal of Biliteracy.
 

Unlock Your Future with TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS)

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:

  • Academic Advising & Tutoring Referrals: Stay on track for graduation and college readiness.
  • College & Career Exploration: Experience guided college campus tours and learn about high-demand career paths.
  • 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!
 

Get a Jump Start on College: Earn Your GEM Certificate! 🎓

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!
 

Earning an Associate Degree in High School

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:


For more details, visit cwi.edu/otterbound.

Grade Level Career Plans

The words 'NEXT STEPS IDAHO' are displayed in white text on an orange background.

Next Steps Idaho

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.

Create Your NSI Account


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.

12th Grade Career Portfolio

NSI Navigation – Idaho LAUNCH Career Pathway Plan
  1. Log in to NSI
  2. Click the green person icon at the top
  3. Select My Dashboard
  4. Click My Pathway Bundles
  5. Choose 12th Grade
  6. Open Idaho LAUNCH Career Pathway Plan Bundle
  7. Complete the Work Values Assessment & Reflection
  8. Save your work to the Pathway Plan Portfolio in NSI
12th Grade To Do Checklist

11th Grade Career Portfolio

NSI Navigation
  1. Log in to NSI
  2. Click the green person icon at the top
  3. Select My Dashboard
  4. Click My Pathway Bundles
  5. Choose 11th Grade
  6. Open 11th Grade Pathway Plan Activities
  7. Complete the Interests and Career Development Pre-Reflection
  8. Save your work to the Pathway Plan Portfolio in NSI
11th Grade To-Do Checklist

10th Grade Career Portfolio

NSI Navigation – Idaho LAUNCH Career Pathway Plan
  1. Log in to NSI
  2. Click the green person icon at the top
  3. Select My Dashboard
  4. Click My Pathway Bundles
  5. Choose 10th Grade
  6. Open 10th Grade Pathway Plan Activities
  7. Complete the Khan Academy actvity
  8. Save your work to the Pathway Plan Portfolio in NSI

10th Grade To-Do Check List

9th Grade Career Portfolio

NSI Navigation – Idaho LAUNCH Career Pathway Plan
  1. Log in to NSI
  2. Click the green person icon at the top
  3. Select My Dashboard
  4. Click My Pathway Bundles
  5. Choose 9th Grade
  6. Open 9th Grade Pathway Plan Activities
  7. Complete the Interests Profiler Assessment & Reflection
  8. Save your work to the Pathway Plan Portfolio in NSI

9th Grade To-Do Checklist

College, Military & Career Contacts

 
KHS College Admissions Directory
KHS Military Recruiter Dirctory
 

Resources & Tools

Brag Sheet
Resume & Cover Letter Generator
Browse Careers
Education & Training Options
College Discovery Center
Career & Tech Education Options
 

Let's Chat!

LET'S CHAT

Business card for Laura Turner, College and Career Coordinator, with contact information.
Set up a meeting with the College & Career team to discuss you or your student's specific goals.