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Focus Regional Winter 2024 | Artesia High School: Senior Year Success Focus Regional Winter 2024 | Artesia High School: Senior Year Success

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Senior year of high school is an exciting and pivotal time for students preparing to transition to life after graduation.

Many seniors will be focused on completing final coursework, taking standardized tests, and preparing for college applications or career plans. They may also experience a mix of emotions, from excitement about their future to anxiety about the unknown. During this year, seniors should expect to balance academic responsibilities with personal growth, leadership opportunities, and making the most of their final year of high school.

As their counselor, I support seniors every step of the way. I can help them navigate the college application process, including writing essays, gathering recommendation letters, and meeting deadlines. I offer guidance for researching options and securing apprenticeships or job opportunities for those considering a career or trade. I meet with my students one-on-one at least once a semester, and I do whole and small group presentations once a quarter to present information pertinent to their success as a senior. These meetings include completing next-step plans, college research, applications, scholarships, exploring career interests, attendance, grades, and more. Every February, our local scholarship process begins, and I meet with students in their English class to help them through this process. The incredible generosity of our community gives our students the opportunity to apply for nearly 40 different local scholarships!

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This year, we had our first Senior Year “Launch Pad” where senior year information was provided to parents and students. We had numerous organizations and scholarship committees present to offer their services and give information about the programs and jobs they offer. Each October, we host a college and career day that includes a college fair for juniors and seniors and a career day with different businesses and companies visiting with our students about the countless opportunities they have once they graduate from high school and/or college. Students have the opportunity to explore different career paths and participate in hands-on activities and demonstrations which help get the wheels turning!

In addition to the academic side, I am a resource for emotional support, helping my students manage stress, set goals, and stay on track toward graduation. I deeply care about my students and their well-being. I want them to make good choices that will positively impact their futures, and I also want them to know they are capable of amazing things. By offering both practical and emotional guidance, I aim to make this transitional year smooth and successful for every senior.

Debbie Kinnibrugh
Counselor – Class of 2025
Artesia High School

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Article written by Debbie Kinnibrugh and originally published in Focus Regional 2024 Winter edition.

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Debbie Kinnibrugh

This is my 6th year as a high school counselor and my 13th year total in education, which includes teaching 6th grade language arts at Zia Intermediate and second grade at Central Elementary. I am currently completing my internship for my second Master’s degree in education administration. I am driven by my passion for supporting students to overcome barriers and pursue their dreams after a personal experience in high school. I have been married to my husband, Cole, for twenty years and we have two children, Brooke and Braylon. My journey into school counseling was inspired by a counselor, Mrs. Judy Stewart, who believed in my potential, helping me defy the odds as a teen mother who broke the cycle for her future and her family.

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