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Your school counselor is an essential partner in your high school journey. This person is ready to help you explore your options, pick the best classes, and build a strong plan for life after high school.

Classes for College

If you want to go to a four-year college (like a big university), you need to take special "A-G" classes. These include subjects like history, English, math, science, other languages, art, and a few other fun classes. You need to get at least a "C" in these classes. Your counselor knows all about "A-G" classes and can help you pick the right ones.

• (Choose your high school and click “Course List”)

Graduating High School

To finish high school in Irvine, you need to pass certain classes and get enough credits. Be sure to look at the charts your school provides, especially if you're in the Class of 2027 or later, because the rules are changing!

• Graduation Requirements

Tests for College

Most colleges don't make you take the SAT or ACT tests anymore. But a few private schools might still want them, so it's always a good idea to check with the colleges you're interested in.

Learning how to plan now will help you a lot in high school and later.

Go to School Every Day

Try to be on time and don't miss many days. Every day at school helps you learn!

Be Organized

Use a planner to keep track of your homework and fun activities. This helps you have more fun time and less stress!

Do Your Homework

Always finish your homework and turn it in on time.

Study for Tests

Get ready for quizzes and tests. It's best to study a little bit each day instead of trying to learn everything at the very last minute.

Learn How to Study

Find ways to study that work best for you. When you're studying, try not to use your phone or play games.

Check Your Grades

Look at how you're doing often, not just when report cards come out.

Ask for Help

Don't be afraid to ask for help! Talk to your teachers, counselor, parents, or friends if you have questions or need some extra help.

Get Involved

Join clubs or sports at school or in your town. It's a great way to make new friends and try new things.

Read

Reading every day is super important! It helps you do better in all your classes.

College Prep (CP) Classes

These classes get you ready for college by helping you become better at writing and thinking.

Honors (H) Classes

These classes are a bit tougher than regular classes. They have more work, so you need to be good at reading, writing, and math, and be organized.

Advanced Placement (AP) Classes

These are like taking college classes while you're still in high school! In May, you can take a special test. If you do well (like getting a 3 or higher), some colleges might give you credit for that class, which means you don't have to take it in college.

Thinking about Honors or AP? 

Ask yourself: Do I like to start work on my own? Do I usually go to class and turn in homework on time? Do I really like this subject? Can I read a lot? Do I work well with others? Am I good at writing? Can I take advice? If you said "yes" to many of these, talk to your teachers, counselor, and parents!

High school isn't just about homework! Joining in on activities is a fun way to make friends and try new things.

ASB (Student Government)

This group helps run the school and plans fun events for everyone.

Sports Teams

There are many different teams, from sports for beginners to more advanced ones. You'll work hard and learn to be a good team player.

Class Council

These are students who help represent each grade level.

Clubs

Clubs are a wonderful way to meet new friends who like the same things you do, or to try something totally new! Many clubs also do good things for the community.

Peer Tutoring & Mentoring

You can help other students learn! Ask your counselor or teachers how you can become a tutor.

Arts (Performing & Visual)

You can dance, act, play music, create art, or even work behind the scenes (like setting up lights and sound). Everyone is welcome!

Academic Teams

Compete with your classmates in fun brainy challenges like Academic Decathlon, Model UN, or Robotics.

Cheer on Your School

Go to plays, games, and shows! It's a fun and safe way to hang out with friends, and colleges like to see that you get involved in your school community.

Community College Classes (Dual Enrollment)

You can take college classes while you're still in high school! This can count for both high school and college credit. Talk to your counselor first!

• Dual Enrollment

Online Classes

You can take some high school classes online, and some might even count for college. Always check with your counselor BEFORE you sign up for any online classes!

Work Experience

If you're an older student and have a paid job, you might be able to get high school credit for it. You'll need a special work permit.

• Work Permits

Career Technical Education (CTE)

These classes teach you skills for different jobs or for special college programs. Many CTE classes, like Video Production, can also help you get into college. Check your school's CTE website to learn more!

• Career Technical Education (CTE) in IUSD

Regional Occupation Program (ROP)

These are special classes that help you explore different jobs. You can earn high school credits, get job experience, and even get certificates. Ask your ROP helper at school about these!

Even though Irvine schools don't require you to complete community service to graduate from high school, they think it's a great idea! It's a great way to help others and learn new things.

Get Credit for Helping

If you help out for 25 hours in one school year, it can even show up on your school report! This looks great when you apply to colleges or jobs later.

How to Get Started

You can get a special form for community service from your school's counseling office.

Where to Help

Many places need helpers! You could help:

Find More Ideas

You can also look on websites like these to find even more places to help out: