Guidance

The McKenzie High School counselor ensures students are enrolled in proper courses to earn an approved high school diploma.  Students are in charge of making sure they pass the courses.  Following graduation, students can go on to 4-year colleges, community colleges, enter the military, attend career or technical schools, and enter the workforce. MHS strives to prepare students for the path of their choice.

Each May, graduating seniors participate in a full graduation ceremony in MHS gymnasium.  MHS staff, school board members, and families are invited to celebrate seniors’ achievements.

McKenzie High School, as part of the McKenzie Special School District, follows both district and Tennessee Department of Education graduation requirements.

What are you going to do after high school graduation? There are many options! Talk to Mrs. Ashley to discuss your options.

4-Year College – After completing coursework at a 4-year college, students earn a Bachelor’s Degree. We will go to College Fairs to learn more about four year universities. 

Community College – Community colleges generally offer a variety of 1-3 year programs in which a student can earn a professional certificate (such as Medical Assistant or Veterinary Technologist) or Associate’s Degree.  Most community colleges are less expensive than 4-year colleges, provide specific job training, and have fewer entrance requirements. For entrance to most, students must have earned a high school diploma or GED, complete the application, and pay the application fee.

Military – Students who want to gain job skills, serve our country, be part of a team, and work right out of high school may want to look at military options.  With 5 branches and various ways to join (active duty, reserve, guard, academies), there are many options within the military. Each branch and section has different entrance requirements.  More information about the various branches, jobs, and entrance requirements can be found at: http://todaysmilitary.com

Career and Technical Schools – These types of schools provide job-specific training to students.  Programs will range in length from a few weeks to 2 or more years. Students come out with the skills and certifications for jobs such as certified nurse assistant, automotive technician, cosmetologist, or computer technician.

Apprenticeships – Some students want to gain professional job skills, but do not want to attend formal college. Apprenticeships may be a good fit for this type of student. Students can gain the skills, education, and certification to become Electricians, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Carpenters through job specific apprenticeships.  Generally, apprenticeships last several years with workers getting paid while they train.

Employment – Students who are ready to join the workforce following high school graduation will want to explore their employment options.  While it is often challenging to find a well-paying job without training or college, students ready to work right out of high school do have options.  Some companies offer paid training and advancement opportunities. Having a strong resume, cover letter, and letters of recommendation will help students as they enter the workforce.

College Information

2-years or less

Students graduate with a certificate or Associate’s Degree

Often less expensive than 4-year colleges

Students able to transfer credit to a 4-year college

Some have traditional campuses where students live in dorms, can participate in sports or clubs, etc

Others have commuter campuses where students live at home or on own

These are state schools (such as Colorado Mesa University or University of Colorado)

Students earn Bachelor’s or higher degrees

Usually have a wide range of majors

Less expensive tuition than private colleges, though often also have less scholarships

Students earn Bachelor’s or higher degrees

Usually have a wide range of majors

While more expensive than public colleges, private colleges often have more scholarship money available

Financial Aid