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Fair A time for new beginnings in Wantagh
Going from the comfort of one school to the unfamiliar surroundings of another one can be a nerve-wracking experience. The Wantagh School District did its best to get those students prepared with a pair of orientations last week.
Freshmen at Wantagh High School filled the auditorium on Aug. 27, where they learned about the place they will spend the next four years. Assistant Principal Jim Brown reminded them that the transition shouldn’t be that tough — the middle school they just came from is right next door.
Principal Carolyn Breivogel told the students that the school is their second home, and reminded them to treat it like home. She said that students have a tradition of representing the school well, and there is an expectation for good behavior. “Our students in Wantagh make us very, very proud,” she said. “We expect nothing different from the class of 2019.”
The freshmen heard from Brendan von Runnen and Emily Latif, co-presidents of the General Organization. They talked about the many different clubs the high school offers and encouraged the new students to get involved. A club fair in the courtyard provided the ninth-graders with a chance to learn about some of these activities and speak to older students.
Three-sport athletes Darcy Smith and Mark Bruckner discussed the athletic opportunities, and reminded the students that their studies come before sports.
Erika Meagher said she wants to join the art club, and is excited for the elective classes she will be able to take. Toni Ann Del Pozzo hopes to join the soccer and track teams.
Eddie Draude said he is looking forward to playing soccer at Wantagh High, and also plans to join a club, but is unsure which one. He also said he is excited to have the freedom to go out for lunch when he is a sophomore.
Draude said that he learned at orientation that there will be a lot of support for him and his classmates as they move up to high school. “I’m very new to it,” he said, “but a lot of people are helping me out as I go.”
Angelina Torre said that the biggest change, in addition to learning a new building, is a heavier workload and more responsibility. Kayla Burke said her key to success in high school will be to pay attention and study hard.
For Marie Gonias, the highlight of orientation was getting her schedule. “I have a lot of classes with my friends,” she said.
Gonias said that the best advice she heard that day was to enjoy high school because the four years go by quickly.
More than 250 sixth graders will come together for the first time from three elementary schools. They got to meet each other at Wantagh Middle School’s orientation, also on Aug. 27.
The incoming students were given their schedules and locker assignments, and allowed to tour the school. Principal Dawn Matrochano said that the students were encouraged to follow their schedule and find the best route from class to class.
Lena Burch, a member of the class of 2022, said she was looking forward to changing classes and joining clubs.
The students, who were joined by their parents, were also treated to lunch from Applebee’s. Matrochano said that the purpose of orientation was to give the students a sense of ease and ensure a smooth transition to middle school.
