How to Prepare Grads for Their Next Assignment

Follow Your Heart

I love this time of year. Not for the tears or emotions that come from watching our seniors complete an all important chapter, but from the perspective of where they are headed. I still get a tiny bit misty-eyed when all of the end-of-the-year stuff happens, but I won’t apologize. Thirteen years are coming to a close for the Class of 2019 and the thought of ending the daily grind for an unchartered new journey is tough on parents. I know–I’ve been there. But it’s so worth it when you focus on the big picture. I’ve had the opportunity to speak to many senior parents and I tell them the same thing: “It’s what you’ve prepared them for. It’s a privilege to see them start a new journey.” So how do we prepare grads for their next assignment?

Next Steps

Seniors for the most part, are ready for the pomp and circumstance and the freedom that awaits them. They believe they are ready for the next steps, the new challenges and the opportunity to explore new adventures. They anticipate the independence that awaits them. Sometimes they leave school with a game plan; sometimes they do not. But it’s our job to help prepare them for what’s ahead. It’s our place as parents, teachers and caregivers to equip them with the tools they need to succeed. So how do we do that? By providing unwavering support and unconditional love; by giving them responsibilities and holding them accountable, and most certainly, by helping them to seek truth and lean on God’s Promises.

Preparing For the Next Assignment

It’s pretty scary to start something new, so I love for kids to know they’ve got a fan club. I want them to know they can make a difference in the big world in which they live. I want them to dream big dreams and follow their heart. And I want them to know they are not alone. I’ve spent 38 years in Texas Public Schools–much of it as a high school teacher and principal. So to help us support our kids, I’ve written a list of 19 tips to help prepare grads for their next assignment. It’s not an endless list, but it does provide food for thought. It can be tucked away in a Bible or notebook to read from time to time. Click on the image above to get a complimentary copy for your graduate. If you need the image to be a different school color, no worries. I’m happy to send you a custom copy. Just let me know. 

And by the way, I had the privilege of presenting four ‘Girls Aloud’ scholarships to White Oak High School senior girls from this ministry. They are pictured below at the awards ceremony on May 17.

I’m praying for our seniors and their families during this milestone and beyond.

Dear Lord, I want to lift up our seniors as they complete one journey and begin another. I’m praying for your presence in their lives and for protection as they begin these next steps. I pray Your Words from Jeremiah 29:11 over them, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Thank you for your unconditional love and abundant grace. In Your Name I pray, Amen.