I know this is “college” confidential, but what are good options for kids who for whatever reason are not “college material”? A friend recently confided that his D struggles in HS academically. I think there are possibly some mental health issues, but I have not asked. College is probably not an option. Not even sure the community college is an option. I think father is struggling because he is very smart, college educated, etc. and can’t relate to her struggles. He can’t understand why D is not motivated. He sees his friends’ kids heading off to college (like mine) and has some grief for his own D and concern about her future. D is a junior, so too late to transfer to a vocational HS program, from what I can tell. I don’t think putting her in a fast food job is a long term solution, for example. Where would look for other job training resources perhaps? CC posters are often very empathetic and helpful with sharing their own experiences, so I am hoping for some inspiration. I would really like to help but I don’t what good options are available to kids who fall through the cracks likes this.
Can you give any more information about her?
Is there anything she is good at/what are her interests?
You can start from there and build a list of options.
- Her high school can conduct tests to see if your friend's daughter has any processing disorders.
- If your friend's town has a Department of Rehabilitative services, please have your friend take his D to them. They will conduct an evaluation. They can give more information on vocational and possible educational types of task that the daughter may be able to complete.
Unfortunately I do not know what her diagnosis might be. He says she likes art and the outdoors. I think he could take more interest in what she likes to do. Is that an insensitive thing to say to him?
If she likes art and the outdoors, maybe park ranger or some other wildlife profession.
Do you have a program like city year. I think it is a one year volunteer position but includes some vocational training. The school guidance department may have ideas for local on the job training programs for recent graduates. Look and see if your local community college has any specialized certificates (not a degree) since those can be more vocational vs academic.
@momtogirls2 I had not thought about suggesting a look at gap year programs. Maybe that’s a structured way to explore different paths, even if college in not in her plan.
Around here, the community college offers a number of trade related degree programs, such as horticulture, veterinary technician, respiratory care, exercise science, dental hygenist, etc. Perhaps something like that would work.
I would recommend having her tested for learning disorders/mental health issues and the like.
Depending on the severity, then she may be eligible for Department of Rehabilitative services like was mentioned.
Otherwise vocational school, Community College, or trades (plumbing, etc) may be the way to go.
not a lot of female plumbers. It can be done, but not a path for the faint of heart.