The Parent’s Guide to College Decisions

A step-by-step roadmap from fifth grade through the transition to college.

You don’t have to figure out the entire college process at once. This 68-page digital guide helps you understand what matters at each stage, what questions to ask, and how to support your child without turning every year into application season.

Inside, you’ll find guidance on:

• Grades 5–8: Building curiosity, habits, and a foundation for high school.

• Grades 9–12: Navigating courses, activities, applications, and senior-year decisions.

• College costs: Understanding financial aid, scholarships, and student borrowing.

• The final decision: Comparing offers and preparing your child for college life.

The guide includes reflection pages, planning tools, and timelines you can return to as your child grows.

Written by Dr. Tamara Minott, an educator, researcher, and college-access strategist.

Format: 68-page digital PDF · 2026 edition