Benchmark 5: Support Services

Student and Family Supports

This is your go-to resource for family and student support throughout the school year. Here you’ll find information about monthly events, college and career planning opportunities, financial aid assistance, academic testing, dual credit programs, and resources to help guide students from freshman year through graduation and beyond. Our goal is to partner with students and parents as we prepare for meaningful post-secondary success — whether that path leads to college, career training, or industry certifications.

Dillo Time

Dillo Time is a scheduled daily support period built into the school day at San Saba High School that focuses on both academic success and student connection.

During Dillo Time, students receive:

Academic support and tutoring from teachers
Time to make up or re-do assignments
Help preparing for quizzes, tests, or projects
Guidance on organization, goal setting, and academic progress

In addition to academic support, Dillo Time includes Mentor Groups.

Each teacher is assigned a small mentor group of fewer than 10 students. These mentor groups are designed to:

Build strong, positive relationships between students and staff
Provide academic mentoring and encouragement
Monitor student progress and offer support when challenges arise
Help students feel connected, supported, and known on campus

Mentor teachers serve as an advocate for their students, checking in regularly and helping them navigate both academic expectations and personal growth.

Students may be assigned specific Dillo Time activities based on academic needs, teacher recommendations, or campus expectations. This structure ensures that every student has access to support while also having a trusted adult on campus they can turn to.

Dillo Time reflects San Saba High School’s commitment to academic excellence, strong relationships, and student success.

Counseling Outreach Calendar

San Saba High School Counseling Services provides monthly outreach events designed to support students and families with college, career, and postsecondary planning. Below is an overview of scheduled outreach opportunities by month and grade level.

September – What’s Next?

Audience: Seniors & Parents
This session focuses on postsecondary planning and next steps after high school, including college applications, selecting a major, cost of living and tuition calculations, housing, entrance requirements and transfer hours.

October – 9th Grade Boot Camp

Audience: 9th Grade Parents
Parents will receive information on TSIA, ACT, and SAT testing, GPA and academic expectations, dual credit courses, student handbook responsibilities, programs of study and pathways, and community service requirements.

November – FAFSA Night

Audience: 11th & 12th Grade Students & Parents
This event provides a FAFSA overview and guidance on completing the application, understanding award letters, in-state and out-of-state tuition, private university costs, and resources to help pay for college. Informational materials will be available. Angelo State University will co-host and present.

January – Gearing Up for College

Audience: 10th Grade Students & Parents
Topics include TSIA, ACT, and SAT information; public versus private colleges; campus tours and college days; admissions processes; majors and areas of study; financial aid; SSHS coverage of ACT/SAT testing and two college applications; and a Q&A session.

February – Parent Orientation: College 101

Audience: 8th Grade Students & Parents
This session introduces families to TSIA, ACT, and SAT testing, WTC dual credit courses and associate degree crosswalks, ASU dual credit opportunities, CTE courses and pathway offerings, and ways parents can support students throughout the process. Senior students will serve as co-hosts and guest speakers.

March – Career & College Pathways Month

Audience: All Grade Levels (Grade-Level Sessions)
Students will explore career interests, CTE pathways, industry-based certifications, college and workforce options, military and technical training opportunities, and basic resume and interview skills. Guest speakers from colleges, local industries, and alumni will participate.

April – College, Career & IBC Recognition and Signing Day

Audience: All SSHS Students, Parents, Community Members, & Alumni
Join us as we celebrate our seniors and recognize college commitments, career pathways, and industry-based certifications.

Event Information
Exact dates, times, and locations will be posted on the San Saba High School Event Calendar. For questions or additional information, please contact the SSHS Counseling Office.

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