Alene Zimmer
Director for Gifted/Talented & Advanced Academic Studies

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS OF SOPHOMORES AND JUNIORS

Dear Parents and Students,

On Wednesday, October 15, 2008 sophomore and junior students will take the PSAT/NMSQT^TM at their home campus. Taking the PSAT can encourage a student to start thinking seriously about life after high school, about college and career goals and about the education needed to reach those goals.

Taking the PSAT provides the following advantages to students:

• It measures the reading, math, and writing skills needed for college (and for success in most jobs and careers in today’s world).  After the test, a score report will tell students how their skills measure up.  Students can use it to find their “skill gaps” and then make plans to fill these gaps before college begins.
• This test gives students a chance to see how their skills compare with those of other students who will also apply to college.
• Score reports and supplemental materials will support student success on the new SAT.
• The Student Search Service^® gives PSAT/NMSQT test takers the option to voluntarily place their names and addresses in a pool of college-bound students interested in receiving admission and financial aid information from certified colleges, universities and scholarship agencies targeted to their special interests and abilities.
• Students who take the PSAT typically score higher on the SAT than those who do not take the PSAT
• It allows students to predict their SAT scores in time to work on specific skills that may raise their scores.
• Sophomores who score well are invited to participate in the district National Merit Preparation program.
• Juniors who score well may qualify for National Merit Recognition and Scholarships.
• It provides valuable information to parents and students on student potential for advanced academics in high school.

PSAT test takers receive a free personalized PSAT/NMSQT college planning kit online at www.collegeboard.com/quickstartttt. Using a unique access code that will be printed on the score report, students will be able to access:

• An online PSAT/NMSQT Score Report.
• A customized SAT® study plan.
• Personalized lists of majors and careers.
• A personalized list of colleges, based on the student’s location and preferred major.
• Access to MyRoad™ – an interactive majors, college, and career exploration program.

You can help your son or daughter prepare for this exam by reviewing the information in the PSAT prep booklet, available on each high school campus.  The booklet provides sample questions as well as test taking strategies.

Katy ISD provides all students the academic opportunities needed to prepare them for college and beyond.  Participation in the PSAT is an important step in preparing for college.

What are the PSAT/NMSQT^TM?
To open the door to college.
To practice for the new SAT^®
To begin the college search.
To see how one’s academic skills compare with those of other college-bound students.
To help direct a learning plan for high school.
To identify potential for advanced courses in high school.