Frequently Asked Questions
General
Q: Is The Joe Barnhart Scholarship Program (JBSP) the same as The Joe Barnhart Academy (TJBA)?
A: No, JBSP is a program that is free and open to all students attending Moreno Junior High School and A.C. Jones High School. TJBA is a magnet school for gifted students that requires an application through BISD.
Q: Do I have to be top 10% to be a part of the JBSP Program?
A: No, all students are welcome and considered a member of our program.
Q: Do I have to make an appointment to visit with a JBSP staff member?
The JBSP office is open M-F, 8am – 4pm. Students can visit the office between classes, during lunch or request a pass from a teacher. If you want to make an appointment, please contact Mrs. Shirsefat in person or by email and she will gladly set one up.
Q: How can I find out about upcoming events?
Sign up for our newsletter or check our calendar regularly for the latest updates on all JBSP events.
Q: Do I have to be a student to attend the Joe Barnhart Lectureship event?
A: No, this event is free and open to the community. No registration is necessary.
College
Q: When should students begin applying to college?
A: There are a variety of factors to consider when applying to college. The summer before senior year, we recommend that students seeking a four-year degree solidify their top college choices and areas of study. Applications generally open in early to mid-August. Students will need to keep track of application submission dates and deadlines as they often vary from school to school. Students should also be cognizant that many universities major’s fill-up quickly (i.e., engineering, visualization, medical, architecture, etc.).
We advise starting applications and essays early to allow for editing and revision. JBSF provides application workshops or students may request one-on-one assistance.
Q: I can’t afford college, what are my other options?
JBSP is here to help all students “find the money!” The first step for all students is to submit their FAFSA application. JBSP maintains an extensive list of local and national scholarships and happily works with students to identify financial aid benefits.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Q: Can someone help me complete my FAFSA application?
Absolutely – the JBSP staff is available to help all students and parents complete their FAFSA application. JBSP hosts a series of free in person workshops for students and parents throughout October. See upcoming sessions here.
Q: I’m not going to college and/or my parents make too much money – why do I need to apply to FAFSA?
Texas requires that all students submit to FAFSA to graduate from high school. It is a simple application that should take more than 15 minutes to submit.
Q: Who needs to create a FSA ID?
Students and at least 1 parent will need to EACH create a FAFSA account with a unique phone number and email address. To create your ID start here.
Q: Am I a transfer student if I'm taking a dual credit class?
A: No, you will apply as a United States Freshman student.