Keystone Boys State is a week-long leadership development program in which the focus is a hands-on simulation of municipal, county, and state government.
WHEN: June 15-21, 2025
WHERE: Messiah University
COST: $225 paid by an American Legion
Category Archives: Special Programs
Elmer Hafer Youth Camp
The Elmer Hafer American Legion State Police National Guard Youth Camp is a six day program for students ages 15-17 interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement or the military.
WHEN: June 8-14, 2025
WHERE: Messiah University
COST: $225 which includes meals and lodging, however the fee is paid by a sponsoring post or unit
YCAL Spring Career Exploration Programs
York County Alliance for Learning (YCAL) has released its schedule of Spring semester career exploration programs. These programs allow York County students in grades 10 – 12 to attend one day programs on a variety of careers. Students can visit a business, hear from professionals, and (in some programs) engage in activities and simulations. These one day programs are free of charge. They serve as a great way for undecided students to “try out” a career or two of interest for a day. There are 21 different day programs this Spring including:
Skilled Trades — Sports Management — Cosmetology — Education — Hospitality & Tourism — HVAC and Plumbing — Artistic careers — Natural Science careers — Psychology & Human Services — Architecture and Construction — Court Reporter — Water and Environmental Technology — Finance — AND MORE!
There is something for everyone! Please take time to review the list of YCAL programs listed on the YCAL website.
YCAL programs do require parent/guardian permission for the student to miss a day of school. Information on permission will be shared with students who sign up for individual programs.
For some programs, district transportation will be provided. For others, students will need to provide their own transportation. Transportation decisions are based on the number of South Western students in each program and availability of staff/drivers. Students should make a plan for self transportation “just in case.”
YCAL programs tend to fill up quickly, so apply now! Questions? Reach out to Mrs. Berkebile, Career Counselor
Financing College
Understanding the Offer Letter and Balances 12/6/22 Tuesday @ Noon and 12/15/22 Thursday @ 6:30 pm
The Offer Letter, or Financing Plans, that you receive to provide an idea of the costs associated with attending post secondary education can be confusing as each school formats their information differently. PHEAA representatives Linda Pacewicz and Daniel Wray will assist you, in this 1 hour webinar, in understanding and navigating through the types of Aid that are listed, what you are being offered and identifying the balances and next steps needed so you can make knowledgeable and affordable decisions. Q&A interaction is encouraged.
Financial Aid and Planning Q&A with PHEAA 12/8/22 Thursday @ Noon and 12/13/22 Tuesday @ 6:30 pm
Articles related to funding a higher education are in the news almost every day, and it can lead even the most knowledgeable of us into information overload. Have you ever wanted to simply ask a few specific questions, yet couldn’t find anyone to ask? Maybe you have questions about planning for college, finding the right school, applying for scholarships, applying for federal and state aid, understanding aid offer letters, completing loan applications, comparing federal loans to private loans, repaying/refinancing loans after graduation, etc. Join Linda Pacewicz and Daniel Wray of PHEAA for a wide open one-hour Q&A session. Ask your questions in an open forum or privately via the chat. Hope to see you there.
Financial Aid Webinar
There will be a financial aid webinar on December 12, 2022 at 6pm. In this session, you will learn what happens after the FAFSA is filed, tips to review financial aid offers, and options to fill the gap.
Please register here
Financial Aid Night
South Western High School Financial Aid Night
When: Wednesday, November 9, 2022 at 7:30pm
Where: Virtual
This presentation will cover the different types of financial aid including grants, scholarships, work study, and loans. Special attention will be given on how to complete the FAFSA.
ACE Mentor Program
CALLING ALL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS INTERESTED IN STEAM!
The ACE (Architecture, Construction, Engineering) Mentor Program is an after school, weekly program held in York open to grades 10, 11, and 12. The mission is to engage, excite, and enlighten high school students to pursue careers in architecture, engineering, and construction, including skilled trades, through mentoring and continued support for their advancement into the industry.
Please see the attached flyer for more information and Register Here
Penn State York Fall Events
Penn State Day Open House
Saturday, October 8 at 10:00 a.m.
During this in-person event, prospective students will learn about the admissions and financial aid processes and timelines, have an opportunity to interact with our faculty and current students, and explore campus via a walking campus tour. Students who attend will receive a $65 application fee waiver.
Virtual Open House
Saturday, December 10 at 10:00 a.m.
Students will learn about the admissions and financial aid processes and have an opportunity to interact with our faculty and current students. Students who attend will receive a $65 application fee waiver.
Application and FAFSA Completion Workshops
Students are invited to attend a workshop with admissions and financial aid staff who will guide students on how to complete their Penn State online application and/or Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Space is limited, so we encourage you to register early. Students who attend will receive a $65 application fee waiver.
York County Regional College Fair
The York County Regional College Fair will be held on Monday, October 10, 2022, from 6-8 PM at the Grumbacher Sports and Fitness Center located on the York College campus. This is a free event and many colleges from all parts of the region will be in attendance.
AHA/Penn State Health STEM Activity Application
It is my absolute pleasure to announce a special STEM learning opportunity for your current year 6th – 11th grade students! The American Heart Association has aligned with Penn State Health Children’s Hospital to offer a STEM experience which will take place in September (date to be determined). We will be selecting 12 students to spend the day at Penn State Children’s Hospital, tour the Simulation (SIM) Center, learn Hands Only CPR and participate in a panel discussion of medical professionals. Interested students should complete the application at the link below, and the deadline for submissions is Friday, June 3rd.
AHA / Penn State Health STEM Activity Application
Here’s a tentative overview of the STEM Experience:
9:00 – 9:15 am Students arrive at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital (PSHCH)
9:15 – 9:30 am Welcome – AHA and PSHCH Cardiologist(s) – Dr. Vyas/Dr. Chin
9:45 – Noon Tour of the Simulation (SIM) Center – Including Hands Only CPR training
Noon – 1:00 pm Lunch (provided by Pediatric Cardiology); Simultaneous panel discussion – Medical Professionals Conversation – opportunity for students to ask questions
1:00 – 2:00 pm Presentation by Drs. Stefek and Tunks/Don Shanebrook – Cardiac Imaging, 3D-printing of the heart
2:15 pm Departure
Please feel free to forward the attached letter to your students and their families. Should you have any questions, please let me know. We do hope you will encourage your students to take advantage of this wonderful learning opportunity. Thanks so much!