CHS Counseling
CHECK OUT THE FEBRUARY EDITION OF THE CHS COUNSELING CORNER!
FEBRUARY IS TEEN DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH
Each February, young people nationwide raise awareness about teen dating violence through Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). This annual month-long push focuses on advocacy and education to stop dating abuse before it starts. As parents it is never too early to talk to your teens about healthy and unhealthy relationships. Please check out A Parent's Guide To Teen Dating Violence.PRIVATE SCHOLARSHIPS & APPEALS: HOW TO GET A BETTER DEAL FROM YOUR COLLEGE
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 7:00 pm (virtual)
Please join the CHS School Counseling Department and College Aid Pro to:
📈 Discover strategies to negotiate better financial aid packages directly from your college.
💰 Learn how to effectively search and apply for scholarships to maximize your funding opportunities.
💪 Gain insights from industry experts on navigating the complexities of college costs.
💸 Understand the key factors that can influence your college's financial aid decisions and how to leverage them
⌛Bonus: Can’t make it live? No worries! Everyone who registers will get the recording and access to our scholarship tips and list of private scholarships. Click here to register.
HOW TO BUILD A COLLEGE LIST THAT FITS YOUR BUDGET (BEFORE SENIOR YEAR)
Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 7:00 pm (virtual)
This webinar is designed for Cranford High School families in the Class of 2027 and beyond (including families with rising 8th graders) who want to approach the college search more intentionally—by building a smart college list before senior year that balances academic fit, personal preferences, and affordability.
We’ll focus on how to identify colleges that are a strong match and realistically fit within your budget, so families can avoid costly surprises later in the process. You’ll also learn how to prepare for effective school counselor meetings, including what to ask to better understand which colleges make sense and what they’re likely to cost for your student.
This session is ideal for families who want to plan ahead, reduce stress, and make informed college decisions early—before applications and financial aid conversations take over.
⌛ Can’t attend live? All registrants will receive the recording. Click here to register.2026 GIRLS STATE at Georgian Court University
June 21 - June 25, 2026
The Girls State program (please click this link to read more) is for current year Juniors, sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit #328. It will afford girls an opportunity to live together as self-governing citizens and inform them about the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of American Citizenship. They will learn government at the municipal, county and state level, as it exists in New Jersey today. If interested, please submit this form by Friday, March 6, 2026. You can click here to learn more.Rider University, Lawrence Township, NJ
June 21 - June 26, 2026
American Legion Jersey Boys State (“ALJBS”) is a college-level, ” learn-by-doing” practicum that provides New Jersey high school juniors experience in democracy, government, and leadership. Learning is gained through lectures, discussions, guest speakers, and career seminars. The Clark American Legion will sponsor 3 male candidates from Cranford High School. Interested applicants should submit this form by Friday, March 6, 2026. candidates should visit https://aljbs.org/ to learn more.CRANFORD FAMILY ACADEMY PRESENTS: DINNER AND A MOVIE
RSVP HERE (Families must RSVP in advance as dinner will be served.)
On Thursday, March 12th we invite families and their children throughout the district to join us for "Dinner and a Movie." This includes a special viewing of Screenagers: The Next Chapter, a powerful documentary exploring the stress, anxiety, and mental health challenges facing today’s teens. The film offers science-based insights and practical strategies for families to support young people in building resilience. The movie will be followed by a panel, to foster meaningful conversations and strengthen connections at home and in our community.
Panel Members include:
- Stella Siciliano - HAS School Counselor (Grades 6-8)
- Det. Lt. TomRich - Previously of the Summit Police Department as Juvenile Detective, Juvenile Sergeant, and more. Cybersecurity advocate.
- Det, Shameko Greene Union County Prosecutor's Office: Specializing in cyberbullying education, internet safety, and school safety initiatives.
- Kristina Silvestry of Peace of Mind Counseling in Berkeley Heights
- Det. Muhammad - Cranford Police Department and CPSD SRO
COURSE SELECTION INFORMATION FOR 2026-2027 IS HERE!
COURSE SELECTION SHEET 2026-2027
Please access the above materials to start planning your course selection for the 2026-2027 school year. All materials can also be accessed on the CHS School Counseling website.
POWERSCHOOL OPEN FOR GRADES 9-11 ONLINE COURSE SELECTION: February 17 - February 26, 2026
2025-2026 POWERSCHOOL ONLINE COURSE SELECTION DIRECTIONS
SCHEDULING MEETING WITH THE SCHOOL COUNSELOR:
- Class of 2030: OAS: February 10 - 17, 2026
HAS: February 18 - 24, 2026
- Class of 2027: March 2 - March 6
- Class of 2028: March 9 - March 13
- Class of 2029: March 16 - March 20
MARCH 27, 2026: LAST DAY FOR SCHEDULE CHANGE REQUESTS
(EXCLUDING LEVEL CHANGES/SCHEDULE CONFLICTS)
ExL *NEW PROGRAM* FOR THE CLASS OF 2027
Are you interested in spending the first semester of senior year at an internship?
Click the link above to learn more.
WINTER/SPRING 2026 SAT PREP CLASSES
These are offered by the CHS Enrichment Academy. Please contact Mr. Jala at [email protected] with any questions.
CLASS OF 2026 FAMILIES
The FAFSA is scheduled to be available from the state of NJ beginning December 1, 2024. Completing the FAFSA is now a NJ state graduation requirement. Follow these directions to complete a form in Powerschool indicating if you're completing the FAFSA. You may also waive tracking data through the completion of this form. Any questions, please contact Mrs. Burfeindt, Director of School Counseling.