Houston High School hosts Senior Night

There are just over 230 days until the high school graduating Class of 2025 marches across the stage to receive their diplomas, and beginning the next stages of their lives. It is those days between now and then that will go by in a flash, with many decisions will have to be made by the graduating seniors. And it was with that time in mind that seniors and their families came out to the Houston High Senior Night.

Staff went over the requirements for graduation and how to prepare for the big day. Students and families were given a checklist to use as the seniors work through the school year, including verifying they have earned enough credits, items for college admission, searching and applying for scholarships and exploring financial aid.

Over 14 different representatives from postsecondary education, military, technical and vocational schools, and local employers were on hand to speak with seniors about programs and options to consider.

“It’s a nice little career fair for our students,” said Houston High School (HHS) counselor Teri Haddeland. who said the event was the biggest for the school to date. “The vendors were so willing and nice to come out and do this for our students. It’s awesome.”

Havana Vritos, a senior at HHS said that having all the resources together under one roof was helpful. “It’s really cool that they did this for us.”

“I love doing things like this because you really get to interact with the students a little more. The students can come up and ask questions, find out if it’s going to be the right fit,” said University of Alaska Anchorage Admissions Counselor Grace Aubrey. She says she understands that UAA might not be the right fit for every student, and that’s alright. “Maybe one of our partner schools has what a student might need, or even figuring out if higher education is the right choice. It’s about finding what you’re really interested in, what’s the right path for you.”

Among the vendors and representatives at Senior Night were Northern Industrial Training, The Beauty School, Houston Fire Department, West Lakes Fire Department, Job Corps, Alaska Pacific University, Grand Canyon University, Armed Forces Recruiting, and Jostens, to help seniors order their cap and gown and other merchandise.