Preparing students for their future isn’t just about academics—it’s about helping them take confident steps toward their next chapter. That’s why we are excited to highlight one of the most valuable resources available to our families: Mrs. Laura Summer. Among her many other valuable roles here, she’s our college & career counselor.
With College & Career Day coming up in early February, now is the perfect time to remind families of the incredible partnership we offer to help students and parents navigate the college admissions process.
What Does College Counseling at WGCS Look Like?
Beginning in 7th grade and continuing through 12th, students and families have access to personalized guidance as they explore their options for college and beyond. Mrs. Summer works one-on-one with students and parents, tailoring her approach to each individual’s needs. However, this isn’t a process students go through alone—or one where all the work is done for them. It’s a partnership between the student, family, and school to ensure that every Warrior is set up for success. While WGCS provides many college & career resources through college day, workshops, college search resources on our website, SAT/ACT prep, and one-on-one college advising, it ultimately is the student’s responsibility to react and seek guidance on their journey. Mrs. Summer is available and always willing to give feedback, encouragement and guidance, at any stage, to help create a plan that best fits each student’s needs.
Here’s how we come alongside families in the journey:
✅ Building a Strong High School Resume – Guidance on academic choices, extracurriculars, and leadership opportunities that strengthen college applications.
✅ Navigating College Applications – Step-by-step support through the application process, helping students showcase their strengths.
✅ Personalized College & Career Planning – Every student is unique, and the process is tailored to their goals, interests, and talents.
✅ Scholarship & Financial Aid Assistance – Identifying opportunities for merit-based and need-based scholarships to make college more affordable.
✅ Test Prep Resources – Every WGCS student has free access to ePrep, an online SAT/ACT prep program designed to help them perform their best.
✅ In-Person Family Meetings – Parents and students can schedule meetings with Mrs. Summer for direct guidance on planning their next steps.
Where Are WGCS Students Headed?
The results of this support speak for themselves. Our students have been accepted into colleges and universities across the country and have been awarded millions of dollars in scholarships. The dedication of our students, combined with the support of their families and the WGCS community, makes a lasting impact on their futures.
Don’t Miss College & Career Day!
College & Career Day — February 12, 2025 — will be a fantastic opportunity for students and families to learn more about college planning, scholarships, and financial aid. Whether you have a rising high schooler or a senior finalizing their next steps, this event is a must-attend! Click here to learn more about it.
If you haven’t had a chance to meet with Mrs. Summer, we encourage you to reach out. Whether your student is just starting to think about college or actively applying, it’s never too early—or too late—to take advantage of this partnership.
At Walnut Grove, we believe in equipping our students to step into their future with confidence, clarity, and purpose—and we’re honored to walk this journey with you.