Wide-eyed incoming freshmen received their first lesson—and passing grade—at Bridgewater-Raritan High School.
Almost 600 students will begin their high school careers when schools open throughout the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District on Tuesday, September 2.
A good chunk of those first-year high school pupils participated in the Freshman Orientation that was presented on Wednesday, August 27, at Bridgewater-Raritan High School.
“We had a huge turnout for Freshman Orientation and I couldn't be more thrilled,’’ declared Dan Hemberger, the Principal at Bridgewater-Raritan High School. “That alone shows the enthusiasm of the Class of 2029. Our incoming 9th Graders got to meet their counselor, pursue available clubs, and were given a campus tour by upperclassmen who serve as Bridgewater-Raritan High School Ambassadors.”
Principal Hemberger first greeted the students that morning when they gathered in the high school’s spacious Vaughn Stapleton Gymnasium. Priscilla Aniegbuna, who is the high school’s Assistant Principal for 9th Grade, then explained the schedule for the day. The Advisors for the Class of 2029, Anthony Appezzato and Elle Greulich, followed and spoke about the upcoming year.
Guidance Counselors and Student Ambassadors delivered presentations, and then the freshmen received their student ID cards and their Chromebooks. Members of the National Honor Society served as tour guides who walked the 9th Graders throughout campus.
The day was capped when the freshmen visited the large cafeteria and explored all of the clubs that were represented with table exhibits. Ice cream treats were the final step before these 9th Graders will make their first official step on September 2.
“We are excited to share that this year’s Freshman Orientation at Bridgewater-Raritan High School was a great success! A large number of our incoming class of 596 students participated in classroom presentations led by counselors and BR Ambassadors, enjoyed walking tours of the high school led by National Honor Society members, and ended the day with a lively club fair,” Assistant Principal Aniegbuna said.
She added:
“This engaging day gave students a chance to connect with staff and peers, learn about resources, explore extracurricular opportunities, and begin to feel at home in their new school. We look forward to an amazing school year with the Class of 2029!”
Principal Hemberger summed up the attitude of the session.
“I saw a lot of smiles today!”