Goodbye class of ‘24, and hello sophomores! Last year’s freshmen are finally at the high school. Since 2023, with looming construction, incoming freshmen have been placed at Harrold School making the high school a 10-12 building.
Freshmen year is typically daunting, but now, for the sophomores, starting high school can feel like a whole new world with a bunch of new emotions. The transition from Harrold School can be exciting and nerve wracking. They are entering a completely new environment that they are not comfortable in, but we want them to know they are welcomed and part of our Hempfield Area community. Just a month in, students are meeting new people, participating in bigger classes, and getting involved in more electives.
When reflecting on the good and bad on this transition, sophomores Shayna Ofchinick and Troy Sebring said, the school, “is a lot bigger, and [it is] harder to get to all my classes.” One thing sophomores will have to get used to is the long journey from cafeteria to H-Wing in just four minutes.
Still, the cafeteria happens to be Jacob Buchholz’s favorite place. This is not surprising since it’s where all students come to relax and socialize. Blaikley Sanderson agrees that “meeting all new people” has made her experience better.
When it comes to the tougher parts of the transition, Mackenzie Ruffin utters, “homework,” while she discusses her greatest challenge. As students get closer to being an upperclassmen, courses are sure to become more difficult. Luckily, sophomores have activity period to meet with teachers and friends to make sure they are ready to start their day understanding newly learned concepts.
Coming into the high school is a big milestone in life with a bunch of new experiences. With good time management, a positive attitude, and support from upperclassmen, these sophomores have a great start to their three years at the high school.
Along with the sophomores coming to the high school this year, the freshmen are also getting used to being in a new building all together at Harrold School. Teachers report that students are adjusting just fine, and they are excited to work with the class of 2028.
While we might be separated by 136, it is important to remember that we are one student body who will work together for a successful 2024-2025 school year.
