Hampton Roads Educational Consulting, LLC

Individual ACE Planning

ACE stands for Academic, Community, and Extracurricular Planning to help your teenager discover and develop interests and abilities, make the most of high school, and prepare for college.

 Academic Planning includes:

• Selecting courses and specialized academic programs
• Planning and preparing for standardized testing

• Finding a college that is affordable and a good match

• Preparing an application that presents your child in his/her best light

Community and Service Planning Helps you Find:

• Relevant extracurricular activities in the local community

• Summer programs

• Internships

• Meaningful service activities that contribute to personal growth or career knowledge - Consult the Hampton Roads Educational Consulting, LLC database of local organizations that offer service options for teens. We've called local organizations to compile standardized information about each organization, including such things as how old a volunteer has to be, whether training is involved, when and how to apply, and so on.

Extracurricular Planning Helps You:

• Find the right balance between school and activities

• Develop a profile of activities that enhance talent development

• Prepare a resume that will be attractive to colleges

When should ACE planning begin?

Generally, the earlier the better. Beginning to plan academic and extracurricular activities in middle school or early in high school allows families to find opportunities and address weaknesses throughout their child's high school years. Some families begin seeking guidance in the 8th grade year, when they are deciding on a specialized high school program like the Governor's School or International Baccalaureate. However, I have started with other families as late as the winter of senior year. You decide how to structure your individual planning. Meet with me once or set up a comprehensive schedule of visits. It's up to you. 

How is ACE planning organized?

I structure your ACE planning around the six areas that colleges typically evaluate in the admissions process: rigor of course work, achievement in course work, standardized test scores, counselor and teacher recommendations, extracurricular activities (including service activities), and the personal essay. Each time I meet with you we will review your child's current status in each area and discuss directions for the future. In the 10th through 12th grade years we will also turn our attention to preparing for standardized testing, choosing colleges that are affordable and a good fit, organizing the application process, and putting your best foot forward in your resume, essay, and interview.  Information on financial aid and scholarships is also available for interested families.

To learn more, call me at 868-6034. The best time to call is Monday through Thursday from 10 AM to noon.