HIAWATHA, IOWA — (August 3, 2026) — As Iowa students head back to school, families are often focused on new teachers, schedules, activities and school supplies. But the start of a new school year is also a good time to begin thinking about what comes next.

Whether a student is entering middle school, starting high school or preparing for graduation, small steps throughout the year can make career and college planning less overwhelming.

Iowa College Access Network (ICAN) encourages families to use the start of the school year as an opportunity to talk about their student's interests, goals and plans for life after high school.

“Postsecondary planning doesn't have to be one big conversation during senior year,” said Brittania Morey, Vice President, Marketing and Communications at ICAN. “The earlier students begin exploring their options, the more time they have to discover what interests them, understand what's possible and make informed decisions about their future.”

Five things families can do this school year:

1. Talk about interests—not just careers.
Ask your student what subjects, activities or experiences they enjoy. Career exploration starts with curiosity. Students don't need to know what career they want yet; they simply need opportunities to explore what interests them.

2. Pay attention to academic planning.
Course choices can affect future options. Families should encourage students to talk with their school counselor about academic requirements, opportunities and courses that connect to their interests and goals.

3. Explore what comes after high school.
College is one option, but it isn't the only one. Students can explore four-year colleges, community colleges, apprenticeships, career and technical training, military service and other pathways that lead to meaningful careers.

4. Start talking about the cost.
Families don't need to have every financial answer today, but beginning conversations about how education and training will be paid for can help students make informed choices. Financial aid, scholarships, savings, work and other resources may all be part of the conversation.

5. Know where to get help.
Students and families don't have to navigate career and college planning alone. School counselors, ICAN advisors and trusted online resources can help families understand their options and determine what steps to take next.

ICAN provides career and college planning resources, financial aid guidance and personalized advising to help Iowa students and families navigate the path after high school.

“Every student has a next step, but that next step may look different for everyone,” Morey said. “Our goal is to help students and families understand their options and feel confident taking that next step.”

Families can learn more about career and college planning resources and ICAN services at www.ICANsucceed.org.

About ICAN

ICAN is a nonprofit, educational organization. ICAN is the College Access Network for Iowa, and a member of the National College Access Network (NCAN). ICAN has locations in Ankeny, Bettendorf, Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Des Moines, Iowa City, and Sioux City, which provide programming and advising support to students and their families as they plan for education and training after high school. All ICAN programs and services are provided without charge. For more information about ICAN, call (877) 272-4692 or visit www.ICANsucceed.org.