Nurturing Growth, Lighting the Way

Lawrence Central School Counselors are dedicated to fostering the academic, personal, social, and career development of all students. We strive to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student feels seen, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential. Through individualized guidance, proactive resources, and meaningful connections, we help students navigate high school and prepare confidently for life beyond graduation.

Find your School Counselor

Getting Started

We're so excited to welcome you and your family to the Bear family! At Lawrence Central, you'll find a vibrant and supportive community where academic excellence, student growth, and personal connections are at the heart of everything we do. Whether you're just starting high school or transferring in, we're here to make sure you feel at home and ready to thrive.

To help you get started, we've gathered the most important next steps and resources below. Let’s make this an amazing journey—together. Go Bears!

PATH TO GRADUATION

Students at Lawrence Central have a wide range of options to personalize their path to graduation, including various course selections, electives, and career pathways. However, it's important to remember that there are both local and state requirements that must be met to ensure a successful and timely graduation.

Graduation Pathways

All Indiana high school students must fulfill Indiana's Graduation Pathways to graduate. These pathways include earning a high school diploma, demonstrating employability skills through experiences like projects, service, or work-based learning, and meeting postsecondary-ready competencies such as achieving college-ready scores on standardized tests or earning industry-recognized credentials.

Diploma Options

For Class of 2029 and Beyond

Indiana Diploma

The new Indiana Diploma is the updated statewide graduation requirement for students in the Class of 2029 and beyond. It replaces the Core 40 and sets a fresh, streamlined standard focused on essential skills, career readiness, and personalized learning paths. Discover what’s new and how it shapes the future of Indiana graduates.

Indiana Diploma Requirements

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Readiness Seals

Enrollment

Employment

Enlistment and Service

For Class of 2025 through 2028

Core 40 Diploma

The Indiana Core 40 diploma is the minimum graduation requirement for students in the Class of 2025 through 2028. It ensures a balanced education in math, English, science, social studies, and electives to prepare students for college, careers, or further training. Learn more about what it takes to graduate and plan your path.

Core 40 Requirements

Academic Honors

The Core 40 with Academic Honors Diploma is an advanced graduation option. It builds on the standard Core 40 requirements by adding higher-level coursework, stricter GPA standards, and additional credits in world languages, fine arts, and college-level classes. Explore how this diploma can elevate your academic experience and open up even more post-graduation opportunities.

AHD Requirements

Technical Honors

The Core 40 with Technical Honors Diploma is a specialized graduation option, designed for students focused on career and technical education. While it shares the Core 40 base, it differs from the Academic Honors diploma by emphasizing career certifications, dual credit career courses, and technical skill development instead of advanced academic coursework. Learn how this diploma can jumpstart your career and set you apart.

THD Requirements

Additional Diploma Opportunities

High school students have the opportunity to go beyond the standard graduation requirements by earning additional diplomas or dual credit through approved college-level courses. These options can help students stand out, save on future college costs, and get a head start on career training. Explore the available diploma pathways and dual credit opportunities below!

Indiana College Core

AP Capstone

International Baccalaureate

Dual Language

Scheduling Classes

Visit our scheduling site to understand our process for selecting classes for next school year.

Scheduling Site

Curriculum

Our curriculum guide describes and summarizes each class available to students for informed selections.

Curriculum Guide

Next Level Program of Studies

NLPS outlines sets of courses that prepare students for a career or trade after graduation.

NLPS Catalog

McKenzie Center for Innovation and Technology

MCIT is a career center preparing students for a career or trade.

MCIT Curriculum Guide

SENIOR SETUP

Lawrence Central High School’s Counselors are committed to preparing every student for life after graduation — whether that means college, career, military service, or other opportunities. Our counselors provide personalized support, guidance, and resources to help students build a path that fits their goals and dreams. Explore the resources below to start planning your future today!

Register for SAT/ACT

SAT

The SAT is an important standardized test that many colleges use to evaluate a student’s readiness for college-level work and to help make admission and scholarship decisions. A strong SAT score can strengthen a college application and expand opportunities for financial aid.

SAT

ACT

The ACT is a nationally recognized college admissions test that assesses a student’s academic skills in English, math, reading, and science. Many colleges consider ACT scores when making admission and scholarship decisions, making it a valuable tool for strengthening your college application.

ACT

College Search Tools

High school students can use Naviance to explore and filter college options based on what matters most to them — like location, major, campus size, and admissions criteria. Simply log in to your Naviance account, click on the Colleges tab, and use the College Search and SuperMatch tools to narrow down schools that fit your interests and goals. Start exploring today to discover the college options that are right for you!

Naviance

Applying To College / Requesting Transcripts

Common App

When applying to colleges through the Common App, start by creating an account using the link below and adding the colleges you’re interested in. As you complete each application, be sure to add your school counselor’s information under the Recommenders and FERPA section — this allows your counselor to upload your transcripts and required forms. Don’t forget to enter your counselor’s email address ending in “@msdlt.k12.in.us” so your documents are sent to colleges on time!

Common App

Parchment

If you applied to a college directly through its application (not through Common App), you’ll need to order your official transcript through Parchment.com. Start by creating a Parchment account and entering “Lawrence Central High School” in the school search field to connect your records. Once your account is set up, you can request that your transcript be sent electronically to the colleges you applied to — it’s quick, secure, and ensures your application is complete! Visit the school counseling office if you need a more detailed instruction sheet on how to request your transcript.

Parchment

College Affordability

FAFSA

Completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is one of the most important steps for students and families planning for college, as it determines eligibility for federal, state, and school-based financial aid — including grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans. Even if you’re unsure about your plans after high school, filling out the FAFSA keeps your financial aid options open. If you need help completing the FAFSA, visit studentaid.gov for resources, guides, and live support to walk you through the process.

INvested

High school students and their families can visit InvestEdIndiana.org for free tools, resources, and expert guidance on planning and paying for college. The site offers information on college costs, financial aid options, scholarships, and smart borrowing tips to help make higher education more affordable. It’s a great place to get personalized advice, attend free webinars, and access resources designed specifically for Indiana students and families.

NCAA Eligibility

NCAA Eligibility Center

High school student-athletes considering playing sports in college can follow the link below to learn about the NCAA Eligibility Center process. This site provides helpful information on academic eligibility requirements, recruiting rules, and how to register with the NCAA if you plan to compete at the Division I or II level. It’s a valuable resource for understanding what it takes to stay on track both academically and athletically for college sports opportunities.

NCAA Eligibility Center

Work Force Options

Next Level Jobs

High school students and their families interested in entering the workforce after graduation can explore Next Level Jobs Indiana, a state program offering free training and certification opportunities in high-demand career fields. The site connects students to job-ready programs, apprenticeships, and employers across Indiana, helping them build skills for well-paying careers without the cost of traditional college. It’s a great starting point for those looking to launch their career right after high school and take advantage of fast, flexible training options.

COUNSELING SERVICES

Lawrence Central’s High School Counseling Department is dedicated to supporting students’ mental health and overall well-being. In addition to academic guidance, the department connects students and families with in-school services and trusted community resources for emotional, social, and personal support. Whether it’s through one-on-one counseling, wellness initiatives, or referrals to local programs, we are here to help students thrive in and out of the classroom.

In-School Therapy: Speak to a school counselor for a referral form for therapy through Community Health Network.

Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Child Protective Services: 1-800-800-5556 / 1-877-433-0138
Community North Stress Center: 1-800-662-3445
St. Vincent's Stress Center: 1-800-872-2210 / 317-338-4800
National Suicide Hotline: Text 988
"HelpMe" App: Download in the Apple or Google Play Store