At the heart of our school community, the Grosse Ile High School Counseling Office is dedicated to supporting every student’s academic, personal, and social development. Our counselors are always available to help students navigate the challenges of school, work, and life, providing a safe and welcoming space for guidance and growth.

More than just academic advisors, our counselors are committed partners in each student’s journey—offering personalized support, sharing valuable resources, and helping plan for life beyond high school. Whether it's exploring college and career paths, applying for scholarships, or managing everyday stress, the counseling office is a trusted hub for students and families alike.

With care, compassion, and expertise, we are here to ensure every student thrives.

Colleges and career schools use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine how much financial aid you're eligible to receive. This aid may include grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and federal loans.

You’ll need to submit the FAFSA every year you plan to attend school, but with the right documents and information, the process can be straightforward. Completing the FAFSA is an essential step toward accessing valuable financial resources for your education.

To ensure eligibility for financial aid, all students and families must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025/2026 academic year. Alternatively, if you do not wish to complete the FAFSA, you may submit a waiver to opt-out of the application process.

Steps:

Complete the FAFSA: Visit FAFSA.gov to submit your application. This is the preferred method to be considered for financial aid.

Submit a Waiver: If you choose not to complete the FAFSA, you must submit a signed waiver. Please note, the waiver may limit access to certain financial aid programs.

FAFSA Waiver *Michigan's new graduation requirement means students must complete the FAFSA or get an "opt-out" waiver to graduate

FAFSA CHECKLIST

Exploring careers is a vital part of every student’s high school experience. It not only helps shape their post-graduation direction but also keeps them motivated throughout their academic journey.

Whether students plan to attend a university, community college, trade school, join the military, or enter the workforce, it's essential to gather the right information to make informed decisions. Understanding their interests, strengths, and options will help students choose a path that fits both their goals and the demands of the evolving job market.

Students are encouraged to explore the Michigan Career Pathways and National Career Clusters frameworks as they begin shaping their post-secondary plans. These tools offer insight into a wide range of industries and professions, helping students see how their education connects to real-world careers.

Meeting with a school counselor and using available resources is highly recommended. These conversations and tools can help students:

• Explore global and local career opportunities

• Stay informed about employment trends and job outlooks

• Understand the education and training required for different professions

Recommended Career Exploration Websites:

• MI Bright Future

• CareerOneStop

• O*NET Online

• Xello

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Outlook Handbook

Take the time to explore—your future starts now!

*Check out the DCTC 2026/2027 School Year Program Offerings!! Sign up to take a tour and explore if one may be the right fit!

At Grosse Ile High School, we are committed to providing students with diverse and meaningful learning experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom. These opportunities are designed to help students explore interests, develop essential skills, and prepare for life after graduation—whether that includes college, a career, the military, or other paths.

Available Learning Opportunities Include:

• Dual Enrollment: Take college-level courses while still in high school and earn both high school and college credit.

• Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: Challenge yourself with college-level curriculum and earn college credit through AP exams.

• Career and Technical Education (CTE): Explore hands-on programs in fields such as healthcare, engineering, business, technology, and skilled trades.

• Internships & Work-Based Learning: Gain real-world experience in a professional setting while building a resume and networking with employers.

• Job Shadowing: Spend time observing professionals in careers of interest to better understand daily responsibilities and required skills.

• Service Learning & Volunteer Opportunities: Get involved in the community while developing leadership and communication skills.

• Clubs & Extracurricular Activities: Join academic, leadership, and interest-based clubs to build relationships and explore passions.

• Personalized Learning Plans: Work with counselors and teachers to align academic choices with long-term goals and interests.

These experiences empower students to take ownership of their education and make informed decisions about their futures. We encourage all students to explore the options available and connect with their school counselor to create a personalized plan for success.

Accelerated learning opportunities encompass a range of educational pathways such as dual enrollment, online courses, work-based learning experiences, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and direct college programs. These options enable students to engage in advanced coursework, earn college credits, and gain practical skills that accelerate their academic and career readiness beyond traditional high school settings.

To help you get ready for a successful year, we’ve gathered key information tailored to your grade level. Please click on your grade below to access specific resources, deadlines, and planning tools: