Proviso Schools to Host Freshman Transition Program Aug. 12, 13

Freshmen will have a chance to experience high school without all the upperclassmen next week at a freshman transition program at Proviso East High School, Proviso Math and Science Academy (PMSA), and Proviso West High School, according to Proviso Township High Schools District 209.

The freshman transition program, taking place Aug. 12 and 13, is designed to provide incoming freshmen with the support that they will need for a successful start to their high school careers, District 209 Superintendent Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart said in a statement.

The transition days are an added bonus, as Freshman Orientation is still on for Aug. 16, according to the district. 

"High school is a time in a student’s life where they will be making important decisions that will affect the rest of their lives," Collins-Hart said. "Getting a good start to those years will help them be better learners and be better prepared to graduate successfully from high school."

During the course of the two-day program, the students will learn tips for becoming a successful high school student, different ways to get involved in activities at their school, and how to begin preparing for life after high school, according to District 209. 

They also will learn how to develop relationships with each other and school staff, play games, have an ice cream social, learn about high school life, and have discussions about their concerns, anxieties, and needs as they move into high school. 

William Breisch, assistant principal at PMSA, said that he things the students will learn from the two-day program and get some of the "social support" and interaction with other freshmen they need as they get acclimated to PMSA.

"We want our students to feel good about our schools and be comfortable in their new settings," Collins-Hart said. "The additional time in the schools before the regular school year will help with that."

Information courtesy of Proviso Township High Schools District 209.