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Central High School

College & Career

College and Career Center

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College and Career Coordinator

Crystal Larson

Email: clarson@central.k12.or.us 

Phone: 503.838.0480 ext. 2550

Hello Panthers!

My name is Mrs. Larson, and I’m proud to serve as your College & Career Coordinator—and as a graduate of Central High School myself, I know just how special this place is.

As you move through your high school journey, please remember that you’re not alone. This is a time full of opportunities, challenges, and personal growth, and Central High School staff is here to support you every step of the way.

Our Student Services team is dedicated to helping you plan for life after high school, whether that means attending college, pursuing a trade program, entering the workforce, or joining the military. We offer individual advising, job readiness support, scholarship guidance, financial aid events like FAFSA and ORSAA nights, essay writing help, and a wide variety of resources to help you succeed.

ASPIRE at Central High School

We’re excited to share that Central High School is now an official ASPIRE site! ASPIRE (Access to Student Assistance Programs In Reach of Everyone) is a statewide college and career mentoring program available to all students. Through ASPIRE, you can receive personalized mentoring, help with applications and financial aid, and guidance on training programs, apprenticeships, and career exploration.

Additionally, we provide hands-on experiences through internships, field trips, guest speaker events, job shadow opportunities, volunteer opportunities, and career fairs. These real-world opportunities enable you to explore various paths and establish valuable connections.

We’re also here to support your personal and professional skill-building—from writing a resume to practicing for interviews to building stronger study habits.

I encourage all students to get involved in clubs, activities, and campus life. These experiences not only make high school more meaningful but also help you discover your interests and build lifelong skills.

And above all, stay curious. It’s okay to try new things and change your mind as you grow. This journey is yours, and you’re allowed to explore.

As you take advantage of the resources and opportunities available to you, I encourage you to keep asking yourself—not just what you want to do, but who you want to become. Let that guide your goals and your path forward.

If you have questions or need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help!

Warmly,
Mrs. Larson
College & Career Coordinator
Central High School

Stay Connected: College & Career Newsletter

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Central's College & Career News

Stay informed with all things College & Career at Central by subscribing to our weekly newsletter. This is the best way for parents and students to keep up with upcoming opportunities, events, and important deadlines.

Each week, you’ll find updates about:

  • Guest career speakers visiting Central to share insights about their fields
  • College representatives on campus to answer questions and guide your next steps
  • Military visits for students exploring service pathways
  • Field trip opportunities to local colleges, training centers, and career events
  • FAFSA/ORSAA completion workshops to help secure financial aid
  • College and scholarship essay workshops for stronger applications
  • Work ready skills sessions (interview preparation, resumes, professional etiquette)
  • Volunteer opportunities to help students fulfill their PLP requirement
  • Important senior dates and deadlines

Parents receive the newsletter through ParentSquare, and students automatically receive it in their school email inbox.

Click here to sign up for ParentSquare

Stay informed, get prepared, and take advantage of the opportunities available to you.

Quick Links

  • Wooden Scrabble tiles spell out the word 'MONEY' on a white surface.
    Scholarships
  • A red starburst graphic with the text 'you are hired!' in bold red lettering.
    Résumés
  • Close-up of hands typing on a laptop keyboard.
    Essay Tips
  • Two figures sit at a table with blue speech bubbles above them, symbolizing conversation.
    Interviews

Financial Aid Resources

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Confused about FAFSA or ORSAA? CLICK HERE to learn more and start your application.

Oregon Promise Grant

Oregon Promise is a state grant that helps cover tuition at any Oregon community college for recent high school and GED test graduates.

APPLY HERE!

  • Oregon Promise grant information with eligibility requirements and deadlines for high school and GED graduates.
  • Graphic promoting the Oregon Promise program with application steps and FAQs.
  • Infographic detailing the Oregon Promise grant requirements and deadlines, with sections on GPA, residency, and graduation timelines.
  • Graphic promoting the Oregon Promise program with application steps and contact information.

PLP Information

Military Resources

SAT/ACT

Want to stay updated on college visits, career events, field trips, scholarships, and more?

Then be sure to follow our College & Career Instagram page!

This is the fastest and easiest way to hear about:

  • Upcoming career guest speakers
  • On-campus events
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Paid internships & job openings
  • Scholarship deadlines
  • College rep visits
  • Work-ready skills
  • And special announcements just for Central students

We post regularly to help you stay on track and take advantage of every opportunity.

Follow us here: Instagram

(Or search for us on Instagram: @CentralCollegeAndCareer)

Don’t miss out—your future starts with staying informed.