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Ponderosa

High School
3661 Ponderosa Road
Shingle Springs, CA 95682
Phone: (530) 677-2281
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College & Career Information

College & Career Information

General

College/A-G Information

CEEB School Code 053373
 
EDUHSD College Fair - September 23, 2024 - Click HERE for the list of colleges attending. 
 

There are 9 undergraduate universities in the UC system:

Prepare for UC | Veterans

Admissions:

  • UC Admissions Website - Contains information regardin admissions to all nine UC campuses. 
  • Undergraduate (Freshman) Requirments - If you're interested in entering the University of California as a freshman, you'll have to satisfy these requirements.
  • Freshman Admit Data - Freshman admission profiles summarize the academic qualifications of applicants and admitted freshmen to each UC campus.

Graduation Requirements

4-Year Planning

PSAT/ACT/SAT

PSAT Registration- Click HERE https://forms.gle/smxcJw16982LZie17 and be sure to pay the $20 test fee online or at the PHS Finance window to be fully registered. 

 
SAT Test: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing (some colleges need the writing portion)
 
CLICK HERE FOR ACT DATES AND REGISTRATION DEADLINES
ACT Test: Reading, English, Math, Science plus Writing (some colleges need the writing portion)
Register: www.act.org
Click here for ACT Fees
 
Fee Waivers are available for those who qualify. Please see your school Counselor.

Study & Practice

Ponderosa HS is partnering with Revolution Prep to provide our students with the opportunity to practice taking college admissions exams while remaining safely at home. 

Khan Academy:

FREE Practice Available
  • 4 official full length practice tests
  • 8 short diagnostic quizzes
  • Thousand of practice questions, video lessons, and hints
  • Instant feedback
  • If you took the PSAT, Khan academy will create personalized practice for you for FREE. Click for how-to video

MORE:

 

Community College

various community college logos
  • FREE TUITION AT FOLSOM LAKE COLLEGE!! There is no income requirement, students are eligible of they are first time freshman taking a minimum of 12 units. CA Promise Grant
  • There are four colleges in the Los Rios Community College District:
 
Other local Community Colleges: 
 

Folsom Lake College

  • Folsom Lake College Application Workshop   
    •  Friday, February 1, 2023
    • at 12:15 pm in the CCC
    •  
  • Folsom Lake College Registration Workshop
    • Tuesday, April 25, 2023
    • During Flex in the CCC
  • Registration Process    PDF

Sierra College

Dual Enrollment

Financial Aid / FAFSA

Financial Aid:
Financial Aid Night is scheduled for Wednesday, November 6th 6-8PM at Oak Ridge High School. 
 
* Email cescobar@eduhsd.k12.ca.us to set up a 1 on 1 appointment for help with your FAFSA/Financial Aid Application.
 
 
Step by step FAFSA instructions linked below:
FAFSA Step by step instructions
 

Free Application for Federal Student Aid

Hello my name is FAFSA

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a federal form for financial aid that is accepted by most schools. The information you provide will be used to figure the amount your family can afford to contribute toward your education (also known as your EFC: estimated family contribution).

The FAFSA for college attendance beginning Fall of 2024 can be filed beginning October 1, 2023, using your 2022 tax year information. 

If your financial or living situation has significantly changed since 2022, you will still be required to use your 2022 information, then follow up with a call to each of your colleges' financial aid offices to explain your situation. You will be asked for documentation.
 
Financial aid deadlines vary by college, but if you file your FAFSA by December you should be in no danger of missing a deadline. If you are unsure, check your college's website.

Fill out the FAFSA online at https://studentaid.gov/

If you plan on NOT filing a FAFSA, this form must be on file in order for your senior to perform their Senior Check Out.
Access the form HERE.
Parent signatures are required if the student is under 18.

Cal Grant

Cal Grant

Your Cal Grant GPA will be uploaded to the California Student Aid Commission in December. This gpa is calculated differently than most gpa's you've seen, but should be close to what you normally know as your cumulative gpa. There is nothing you need to do, no paperwork to fill out.

What you DO need to do is follow up! It is important for you monitor your Cal Grant status and make sure your GPA actually made it all the way into the state's database. Remember, a missed deadline is a missed deadline, even if it wasn't your fault. After you file your FAFSA. visit webgrants4students to verify your status - you'll need to create a profile. If anything you see (or don't see) worries you, ask Mrs. Bastian or your Counselor to help you figure it out.

Loans / Work Study

Loan
Stafford Loan
This is a federal student loan. With the unsubsidized loan, the interest accrues while you are in school, but you don't pay it until after you stop attending. With the subsidized loan, the government pays the interest while you are in school.

Work Study
A college might offer Work Study (on-campus employment) as a way for you to meet your cost of attendance. It is important to know that these offers can vary widely from college to college. Work Study is very similar to having an off-campus job, but with Work Study your pay in considered financial aid rather than income.

Other Loans
If you still have unmet need, the PLUS loan is a popular loan for parents of students. Some families choose to use a home equity-type loan. Shop around for best interest rates and repayment options.

Scholarships

 

Find Local Scholarships Here: 

  • https://scholarships.edcoe.org/ (Available Nov. 1, 2024)

  • Local Scholarships Flyer

  • Local Scholarships by Category spreadsheet! A reference guide to help you determine what local scholarships you should apply for. 
 
In addition to the scholarships listed below, do not forget to log on to https://scholarships.edcoe.org/ and create an account to apply for our local scholarships!
 
   

Regional/National scholarships:

 

CTE/ROP

Career Exploration

 

*Check out the EDUHSD Career Website HERE

 
Research careers and take interest & skills inventories here (log in with your school email):

Military

 
PHS MILITARY RECRUITERS:
Air Force: Trayonna Goins
trayonna.goins.1@us.af.mil
(916) 856-8862
Careers available in the Air Force: https://www.recruiting.af.mil/Resources/
 
Army: Troy Collier
troy.j.collier.mil@army.mil
(916) 365-5915
 
CA National Guard: Michael McGimsey
michael.a.mcgimsey.mil@army.mil
(916) 214-6707
 
Marines: Christopher Hankins
christophe.hankins@marines.usmc.mil
(209) 283-0608
 
Navy: Clifford Geller
clifford.j.geller.mil@us.navy.mil
(916) 786-8776
 
High School Opportunities:
ASVAB:
  • Military Enlistment requires an ASVAB score for entrance and job placement
  • ASVAB can be taken either at the school site, or at MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station)
  • The ASVAB test is offered twice during the school year
    • Fall - November 4th, 2024 1-4pm
    • Spring - February 10th, 2025 1-4pm Register HERE
 

Volunteer Information

Work Permits

CAREER/JOB OPPORTUNITIES WEBSITE: Click HERE

Work Permit Info 

Working While In School

Work permits are available from Mrs. Escobar in the College & Career Center. Students must have a 2.0 GPA, no fines with the school, and already be hired to work to qualify for a work permit.

How to submit a work permit request when school is in session:

Follow the instructions below to submit a work permit request:
  • Download and print the Request for Work Permit or pick one up in the PHS Counseling office. 
  • Complete pg. 1 of the permit, as well as all three sections on pg. 2 (minor’s information, parent signature, and employer information). These sections must be complete before submitting your work permit. 
  • Turn in your completed work permit to the PHS College & Career Center.
  • The permit will be processed and returned to you.  

How to obtain a Work Permit when the Counseling Office is closed:

  • Secure a job/get hired. 
  • Download and Print the Request for a Work Permit
  • Fill in the form. 
  • Note: All three sections on pg. 2 of your work permit must be completed before submitting your form. 
  • Take a picture of both sides of your completed application or scan the application and send it through email to the correct person listed below depending on the date. 
  • The work permit will be processed and sent back to the student via email
  • Print the work permit, sign it, and give it to your employer. 
 
May 27th - June 12th and July 14- July 29
Monday - Thursday, 8:00-3:00pm,  online or walk-in options
Ponderosa Counseling Office
gdriscoll@eduhsd.k12.ca.us
 
June 12th - June 26th and July 14th - July 29th
Monday - Thursday, online only or by appointment
Ponderosa Front Office
kmeinz@eduhsd.k12.ca.us
 
May 27th - July 29th
Monday - Thursday, 8:00-4:00pm, online or walk-in options
El Dorado Union High School District Office
mwheeler@eduhsd.k12.ca.us
 
 
The college and Career Center will be open July 30th.
 
If you have any questions, please contact the Counseling Office at 530-621-4003 ext. 4215, or the Student Services and Innovations Department at the District Office at 530-622-5081 ext. 7224.

College Athletics

Forms

  •  

Tutoring

Sign up to be a student tutor HERE.
 
To request a tutor, stop by the College & Career Center. 

Presentations

 
 
 
2024-25 Freshman Presentation
 
 
Course Registration Class of 2028
 
 
2024-25 Middle Years (Sophomore/Junior) Presentation

Transcript Request

Grade Level Information

Grade Level Information

Seniors

 
Flyers/Presentations:
 
FBI TEEN ACADEMY  - juniors and seniors only
Have you wondered if the TV shows featuring the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are realistic? Are you curious about what it takes to be an FBI agent or member of the FBI’s professional staff? Do you wonder what case work is like?  Here’s your chance to experience it firsthand. The Sacramento FBI Teen Academy will be held on November 19, 2021 at FBI Sacramento field office in Roseville. Any high school junior or seniors currently residing within the 34 California counties served by the FBI Sacramento field office may apply.  

Application packages are currently available online. Students must be complete and submit all required application materials to Sacramento field office in Roseville no later than 4 p.m. on Friday, October 1, 2023. https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/sacramento/community-outreach

Applications must be received by October 1, 2023. Incomplete and late applications will not be accepted. Mail or hand deliver your application to:
Sacramento FBI
Attn. Community Outreach Specialist/Shelby Samaniego
2001 Freedom Way
Roseville, CA 95678
 
Local Scholarships Flyer
 
 
STUDENT SQUARE TEXT REMINDERS
Sign up to receive communication from the Counseling Office & College & Career Center via text message to ensure you don't miss out on any important deadlines and opportunities. 
  • Sign in to Student Square HERE and click on sign in with Google. 
  • Click on your name in the upper right hand corner then click 'My Account'.Student square sign in
  • Within your account click on the 'Edit' button and enter your cell phone number and click save.
  • Under 'Post Notification Setting' click 'change this' and check the box for text notifications. Post notification settingsHow would you like to be notified? Email, Text, App Notification
 
 
Register to vote california

Juniors

FBI TEEN ACADEMY  - juniors and seniors only
Have you wondered if the TV shows featuring the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are realistic? Are you curious about what it takes to be an FBI agent or member of the FBI’s professional staff? Do you wonder what case work is like?  Here’s your chance to experience it firsthand. The Sacramento FBI Teen Academy will be held on November 19, 2021 at FBI Sacramento field office in Roseville. Any high school junior or seniors currently residing within the 34 California counties served by the FBI Sacramento field office may apply.  

Application packages are currently available online. Students must be complete and submit all required application materials to Sacramento field office in Roseville no later than 4 p.m. on Friday, October 6, 2023. https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/sacramento/community-outreach

Applications must be received by October 6, 2023. Incomplete and late applications will not be accepted. Mail or hand deliver your application to:
Sacramento FBI
Attn. Community Outreach Specialist/Shelby Samaniego
2001 Freedom Way
Roseville, CA 95678
 
Newsletters:
 
 
Middle Years Presentations:
 
 
Juniors:  10 Tips for a Productive College-Bound Summer
 
STUDENT SQUARE TEXT REMINDERS
Sign up to receive communication from the Counseling Office & College & Career Center via text message to ensure you don't miss out on any important deadlines and opportunities. 
  • Sign in to Student Square HERE and click on sign in with Google. 
  • Click on your name in the upper right hand corner then click 'My Account'.Student Square sign in
  • Within your account click on the 'Edit' button and enter your cell phone number and click save.
  • Under 'Post Notification Setting' click 'change this' and check the box for text notifications. Post notification settingsHow would you like to be notified? Email, Text, App Notification

Sophomores

 
SOPHOMORE COUNSELING PRESENTATION - Click HERE
 
STUDENT SQUARE TEXT REMINDERS
Sign up to receive communication from the Counseling Office & College & Career Center via text message to ensure you don't miss out on any important deadlines and opportunities. 
  • Sign in to Student Square HERE and click on sign in with Google. 
  • Click on your name in the upper right hand corner then click 'My Account'.Student Square log in
  • Within your account click on the 'Edit' button and enter your cell phone number and click save.
  • Under 'Post Notification Setting' click 'change this' and check the box for text notifications. Post notification settingsHow would you like to be notified? Email, Text, App Notification
 
 

Freshmen

 
FRESHMEN PRESENTATION FROM COUNSELING- Click HERE
 
 
STUDENT SQUARE TEXT REMINDERS
Sign up to receive communication from the Counseling Office & College & Career Center via text message to ensure you don't miss out on any important deadlines and opportunities. 
  • Sign in to Student Square HERE and click on sign in with Google. 
  • Click on your name in the upper right hand corner then click 'My Account'.Student Square log in
  • Within your account click on the 'Edit' button and enter your cell phone number and click save.
  • Under 'Post Notification Setting' click 'change this' and check the box for text notifications. Post notification settingsHow would you like to be notified? Email, Text, App Notification
Get adobe reader
About the PSAT
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test is a great tool for students considering college. The PSAT/NMSQT measures critical reading skills, math problem-solving skills and writing skills. Ponderosa High School recommends that students take the PSAT/NMSQT in order to receive feed back about strengths and weaknesses, enter the competition for National Merit Scholar scholarships (11th graders) and to help prepare for the SAT.
 
For students wishing to study for the PSAT, Collegeboard's official study materials are available from Khan Academy. . 

Registration Info

PSAT/NMSQT Registration is NOW OPEN!  Please click on the link sent to your school email to register for the 2024 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), scheduled for Monday, October 21st, 2024.


Please note that we will accommodate Sophomores and Juniors on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Each pre-registration is date & time stamped for us, so it is important that you complete the pre-registration form as soon as possible.

Things to know about the PSAT Fee:

  • The exam fee is $20.
  • Payment will be accepted starting on August 26th for Juniors and September 1st for Sophomores.  All students have until September 8th to submit the final payment.
  • Payments can be made by credit card via this link https://ponderosa.myschoolcentral.com (note there is a transaction fee). 
  • Payment may also be made at the finance window.  If writing a check, please make it out to Ponderosa High School and write your student's name in the memo line.
  • If you believe you qualify for a fee waiver (which reduces your test fee to $5), you will need to complete a Free and Reduced Lunch Meal application and be approved. You can complete that form online HERE or come by the College and Career Center for assistance. 

Please contact Mrs Cammie Escobar, cescobar@eduhsd.net, if you have questions.

  PSAT
 
 
 
Complete form on-line, save, and attach to email.
 
Complete form and return to Cammie Escobar
 
Three day notice required
 
Cammie Escobar
Phone: 530.677.2281, ext 2224

Need a job? Check out our CAREER/JOB OPPORTUNITIES WEBSITE:

Click HERE

 

 

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

 
 
 

College Fair

Monday, September 23, 2024 @ 6:30pm at Union Mine High School
Click HERE to see the list of colleges participating
 

PSAT

Monday, October 21, 2024 
Registration details coming soon
 

ASVAB

Monday, November 4, 2024 @ 1pm
Location TBD
 

Financial Aid Night 

Wednesday, November 6, 2024 @ 6pm
@ Oak Ridge High School
 

Community College Fair

TBD
 

Folsom Lake College Info Night

(PHS Families only)

TBD
 

ASVAB

Monday, February 10, 2025 @ 1pm
Location College & Career Center 
 

EDUHSD Career Expo

Thursday, March 6, 2025 @ 6:30PM
Location @ Union Mine HS 

Folsom Lake College Registration Workshop

Dates TBD (during Flex periods) 
 

Scholarship Night (invitation only)

Thursday, May 1, 2025
at 6:00pm in the Large Gym
 

Military Send Off

Thursday, May 8, 2025
@ lunch in the Large Gym 
  
CCC Photo for website

Cammie Escobar
Phone: 530.677.2281, ext 2224





 Register to vote

Registration Deadline

The deadline to register or re-register to vote for any election is 11:59:59 p.m. Pacific Time on the 15th calendar day before that election. If you submit an application after this time, your application will still be processed for future elections.

What You Will Need

To register online you will need:

  • Your California driver license or California identification card number
  • The last four digits of your social security number 
  • Your date of birth

Your information will be provided to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to retrieve a copy of your DMV signature.

If you do not have a California driver license or California identification card, you can still use this form to apply to register to vote by completing the online interview by 11:59:59 p.m. Pacific Time on the 15th calendar day before an election.