With Feb. 13 right around the corner, the deadline to make changes to 2025-2026 course selections is creeping in. Course cards, which students use to choose the classes for the next school year, have already been submitted. However, students must meet with their designated counselors to make any last-minute changes before the Feb. 13 deadline.
For counselors, this time of year can be especially hectic, as they maneuver a busy schedule of meetings with students, review course selections, and make necessary adjustments.
“We meet one-on-one with students, with their updated course sheets and use those to enter in a student’s course requests on the teacher’s side of HAC,” counselor Leigh Casares said. “Additionally, transcripts help counselors ensure that the courses students select keep them on track for graduation.”
Uncertainty and confusion are common for students as they navigate through the broad range of classes and electives provided to FISD students. Luckily, this is where counselors take charge as they guide students in making well-informed decisions.
“We usually ask questions like ‘What are things that interest you?’ ‘What do you do in your spare time?’ and ‘What do you envision your future to be career-wise?'” Casares said. “Based on the responses we get from these questions, we narrow down to different career pathways that fit the student’s interests and goals.”
On the other hand, when students select their classes, each individual has distinct factors to consider that are tailored to their specific academic needs.
“Course rigor matters to me a lot,” Avani Yerawar, 11, said. “I want to take at least four AP classes next year or some dual enrollment. I have an interest in pursuing medicine, so I will try to take classes relevant to that field.”
Moreover, Yerwar shared the classes that she looks forward to the most.
“During my senior year, I will be enrolled in the Patient Care Technician class at Collin College, which will provide me with more exposure to the medical field while also certifying me to draw blood,” Yerawar said. “I’m also excited to be entering my second year in the Independent Study and Mentorship program, as well as my fourth year on the debate team. These elective courses will enable me to expand on my passions and upgrade my skills.”
Counselors are available during Power Hour or students can request to meet with their counselor in the counseling office as soon as possible by Feb. 13.
