The transition from middle school to high school can be difficult. Some students take honors or AP classes for the first time, others join a school sport, and many have to adjust to the unique dynamic of high school. In an effort to make this transition as smooth as possible, a new initiative has been put in place: monthly freshmen class meetings.

Every year, within the first month of school, each grade steps out of class for a class meeting to address some general issues and reacquaint everyone with the standards expected at school. However, these meetings only occur once a year, and for the freshmen, who are often lost and need more assistance, once isn’t enough.

This year, however, the freshmen class is having monthly class meetings. Dr. Toriello notes that he hopes these meetings ensure continuous support for the freshmen throughout the year as they experience different obstacles and achievements. He emphasizes that the main goal behind these meetings is to “acclimate our freshmen to the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional expectations of high school life”, which are entirely different from what they are accustomed to in middle school.

These meetings also provide a support system for the freshmen as they navigate this tumultuous transition. Students not only build connection with each other, who are likely facing the same challenges, but also, as Dr. Toriello points out, “become familiar with the full network of adults available to support them—from counselors and deans to class advisors and wellness staff.” Knowing they have the support of those around them can truly help them feel more comfortable and assuage their nerves.

In the meetings, students can ask specific questions, share their concerns on a variety of issues, and become more comfortable with one another. Some common topics addressed at meetings include fundraising, class identity, the attendance policy, and academic planning, providing insight into the ins and outs of high school. Not to mention, the beginning of the year, “Surviving High School”, and the “Sophomore Year Preview & End-of-Year Preparation” meetings help students reflect on where they started and how they have grown over the year, as well as allow them to prepare for future success.

In particular, freshman Aditi Desai mentioned how the meetings provided information about “important things such as common assessment testing, the homecoming dress code, and spirit weeks”. While older students are accustomed to such information, for the freshmen it helps keep them up-to-date with events at Morris Hills and keep track of important dates.
These meetings truly encompass some of the major challenges surrounding freshman year and relieve some of the pressure that comes with such a big transition. Despite being a new initiative and having only been implemented for a few months so far, they have the potential to make freshmen year significantly easier for the roughly 300 students in the freshmen class, not to mention the effects they could have on their peers and the staff here at Morris Hills.