Harrison High School Creates Newcomers Group to Welcome New Students

The following press release is from the Harrison Central School District and first appeared on its website:

Harrison High School was excited to welcome 50 new students to its halls this fall. Many have joined Harrison High School from schools nearby such Iona and Rye. Others have travelled great distances – ranging from California and Texas to Angola, Canada, Egypt, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Italy, Paraguay and Peru.

The Newcomers Group, with help from the Student Government, Friends of Rachel Club, and Peer leaders, met with the group of new students over the past few months to help build relationships, help the new students learn about the school, provide knowledge and access to support services that are available, as well as mean for getting involved in the school. The group was facilitated by HHS’ social workers, who provided an adult connection and who are experts in helping new students transition smoothly into their new community.

“Entering a new school is a transition that we know can be stressful for students and their families,” said Director of Guidance Dr. Christopher Miller. “For some, these are relatively smooth transitions; for others, the transition can be challenging. In Harrison, we work hard to ensure that all students are supported and cared for in their transition and we continually examine our practice to improve the experience for our students and their families.”

Recently, the Newcomer Group celebrated the halfway point of the first quarter marking period with a breakfast.

Photo: Attendees at a recent Newcomers Group breakfast. Photo credit: Harrison Central School District