College and Career Program at John O’Connell
The College and Career Program at John O’Connell High School infuses college awareness and college readiness into the school day, preparing more students and families for the path to college.
John O’Connell High School nurtures a school-wide college-going culture. All students develop college and career plans, and believe college is in their future. Students and their families feel supported on their path to college.
In partnership with the school day, the College and Career team provide in-class college readiness curriculum as well as one-on-one 2 and 4-year college counseling.
Find college support in the College & Career Program at John O’Connell High School.
Important Contacts
Jill Marinelli
Program Director
“Mission Graduates is not just a program. It is a support system for our students who need love and guidance to achieve their higher education and or post high school goals. Students see in a family within the Mission Graduates staff and show their appreciation by giving up their lunch time and even coming for long hours after school to take advantage of their help. All students rave about their college going process because of the help they are able to get right here in their school.”
Leslie De Haro, 11th and 12th Grade School Counselor
Program Highlights
Parent Workshops
Financing college and post-secondary options, presented in English and Spanish. Join us for events for students and parents – Cash for College Night, Financial Aid Night, and Financial Literacy Night this year.
Alumni Resources
In our programs we design and deliver project-based learning and sequenced intentional learning activities to reinforce and supplement the learning happening during the school day. All lessons are part of a unit, and a culminating class, program, or family event marks the end of a unit of study and showcases youth’s learning.
College and Career Center Student Services
One-on-One Advising
Personalized college, scholarship, and financial aid support, as well as pairing seniors with writing and academic mentors
College and Career Class
Weekly college-themed course for 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students
Student Success Coach
Embedded in the classroom to support through academic coaching, mentoring, and attendance case management
Group Workshops and Cram Jams
Led monthly after school Personal Statement, College Application, Scholarship, and Financial Aid workshops.
College and Career Exploration
11th and 12th grade students visit local colleges throughout the year, with the chance to join a week-long Southern California College Tour geared to first-generation students. Tours and panels with local industries, as well as a school-wide Career Day help students begin to plan for what’s next.
