More than 700 new freshmen filled the San Benito High School
gymnasium yesterday to meet one another and get comfortable in
their new surroundings.
Hollister – More than 700 new freshmen filled the San Benito High School gymnasium yesterday to meet one another and get comfortable in their new surroundings.
After a group meeting, members of the class of 2009 broke into small groups led by upperclassmen to play a number of games aimed at building connections between the new classmates, who hail from middle schools throughout the county.
Upperclassmen group leaders took freshmen on a tour of the campus, helped them located their classes and lockers and provided sage advice on the school’s social customs.
For example, while passing the Senior Mound, a grassy knoll located in the heart of the campus, group leaders advised newcomers that the mound was reserved for seniors.
Another group leader explained that while Baler Alley may appear to be an ideal route to take to exit campus and ditch class, it is closely monitored and escape is unlikely, she advised.
Freshmen orientation is an opportunity for newcomers to see the campus and get to know their fellow students, Associated Student Body member Stefany James said. The occasion prompted James, now a senior, to remember her own orientation three years ago.
“I was really nervous, but it was how I got involved in ASB,” James said. “I was from Mays, so there were lots of us here, but I didn’t know anyone in my group.”
Although some freshmen clearly appeared dazed by the large campus, many intrepid newcomers said the prospect of starting high school on Monday wasn’t overwhelming.
Freshman Vanessa Toledo, 14, was excited, particularly about the social opportunities, that San Benito High School will provide for her and her classmates.
“I’m excited about meeting new people, especially the guys,” Toledo said.
Toledo, a recent Mays Middle School graduate, said attending orientation had been beneficial and enjoyable, but was concerned about high school level homework, which she thought would be “a lot harder.”
Camille Aguero, a former Rancho Middle School student, has already selected attire for her first day at school Monday, but said she wasn’t nervous. Like many others, Aguero is most excited by the prospect of meeting so many new people.
SBHS Superintendent Jean Burns Slater is looking forward to working with the class of 2009.
“This group seems so enthusiastic and excited,” Slater said. “It’s just a real positive feeling.”
Brett Rowland covers education for the Free Lance. He can be reached at 831-637-5566 ext. 330 or [email protected]
