Here on the ACT Counselor Blog, we love celebrating the voices of passionate school counselors in
our community — and today, we’re excited to feature a special guest! As a certified school counselor and the creative mind behind thedopecounselor.com, they’re bringing their energy, experience, and student-centered ideas to help you celebrate one of the biggest milestones of the year: National Decision Day. If you’ve been looking for fresh, meaningful, and stress-free ways to mark this important moment with your seniors, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!
National Decision Day is more than just a date on the calendar, it’s a major milestone for our seniors! It’s the moment they get to proudly share what’s next, whether that’s college, the military, a career, or pursuing a different path altogether. As school counselors, we get the best job ever: hyping them up and celebrating every single path.
I know this time of year can feel a little hectic (because... it is), but planning a fun, meaningful Decision Day event doesn’t have to add to your stress. I’ve got you! As a fellow certified school counselor, I’m sharing all the creative ideas, planning tips, and ready-to-use resources you need to make your celebration smooth and memorable.
Let’s make this a day your students will never forget and one you’ll actually enjoy planning.
Best National Decision Day Events
1. Decision Day Parade
Okay, let me tell you about one of the coolest traditions I’ve seen at a high school. It is the ultimate celebration of seniors, and it’s seriously a really good time for all.
So picture this: the marching band is blasting that feel good music through the halls, and the seniors are walking behind them, beaming with pride. The energy is electric. The crowd is cheering. The vibes are amazing. The excitement was contagious; students, staff, and everyone had the biggest smiles on their faces! How could you not?!
Here’s how you can bring this magic to your school:
Step 1: Reach out to your high school’s band director and ask if the marching band can help escort the seniors in style. Pro tip: the earlier you ask, the better!
Step 2: Hype up the seniors and have them rep their future plans with college shirts, military gear, company swag, you name it.
Want to take it up a notch? Give them poster board paper and let them go wild designing signs that show off their post-high school plans.
This is where the creativity really shines. You’ll get everything from expert poster board designs to some... well, let’s just say they tried. Either way, it’s all part of the fun.
Step 3: On the big day, with their posters in hand and gear on, let the seniors walk through the school with the band leading the way.
Teachers, staff, and underclassmen can line the halls, cheer them on, and soak up all the good energy. It’s an unforgettable moment celebrating the journey and setting the tone for everything coming next.
Trust me, you’ll want to be part of this.
2. “Where Are They Now?” College & Career Panel
This is such an informative and eye-opening event. You have a great opportunity to invite recent grads, military recruiters, trade school reps, and young professionals to talk about their post-high school path.
As part of the event, students can have an opportunity to ask questions to the panelists.
I suggest preparing some questions for the students to ask the panelists, just in case they need help figuring out what to ask.
3. College & Career Signing Day Event
Another beautiful way to make each student feel extremely special.
Start by sending out a Google Form ahead of time to get a sense of who’s attending and what their specific post-graduation plans are. For example, “What college or university will you attend?”
Transform the event space with school-colored backdrops or drapes, and set up tables where students can proudly “sign” their letters of intent. Hand out certificates to mark the moment and make sure there’s plenty of time for photos with friends, family, and staff.
Speaking of family, this event is for them too. Invite parents and loved ones to join the celebration and encourage them to wear gear that represents their student’s next step. It’s a meaningful way to honor where they’ve been and where they’re headed.
4. Decision Day Picnic or BBQ
Celebrate National Decision Day with this laid-back event! Music, an Italian ice food truck, lawn games, yearbook signing, and a chance to wear gear representing your college, military, or career.
I also suggest adding a resource table for anyone still exploring their options or looking for last-minute guidance. School counselors, recruiters, and/or representatives from local programs can be available to answer questions.
5. Decision Day Scavenger Hunt
As much as seniors have “senioritis,” they will absolutely participate in a scavenger hunt activity. It is super fun and engaging!
Design a custom bingo card using Canva, with each square as a task like “Find someone going into the military,” or “Snap a selfie with someone attending an HBCU.” It’s a great way to get students mingling, learning about each other’s plans, and celebrating every post-high school path.
And here’s a pro tip: have a sweet reward ready for those who complete their cards! Think cupcakes, donuts, or popsicles. A little incentive goes a long way!
For even more inspiration, check out thedopecounselor.com, where you’ll find more tools and fun ideas to support school counselors and students.
