Croton-Harmon High School Welcomes Ninth Grade Students

From Croton-Harmon School District:

On their first day of high school on Sept. 1, Croton-Harmon High School ninth-grade students walked the school’s hallways and visited their classrooms feeling a little less overwhelmed thanks to their “Big Buddies” who helped guide them along the way.

Fifty seniors, who are part of the mentoring program that makes the freshmen’s transition into high school a little easier, walked the younger students in groups to each of their classrooms and lockers and were there to answer their questions. Big Buddies said they could relate to the freshmen because they remember how an older student helped guide them through the same process on their first day of high school three years ago.

“It’s good to be a mentor for the younger students,” senior Lexi Marans said. “I remember how I felt being a freshman. I was so scared and nervous to come into the school, but my Big Buddy made it more comforting.”

In order to make the transition smoother, the Big Buddies and younger students met in the spring to share personal information with each other, including the types of sports and clubs they’re involved in, and kept in touch over the summer.

Freshman Ariana DiMarco, who plays tennis with her Big Buddy, Emily Hahn, said the program has helped her get to know more people who aren’t in her grade.

Eric Rosen, Big Buddies co-advisor and high school psychologist, praised the group of seniors who were selected to mentor the younger students.

“It’s great to see our seniors, who are about to embark in the real world, give back and show our younger kids the ropes for their first day of high school,” Rosen said. “I remember when they were freshmen, so it’s a nice cycle to see all of our kids enjoy their first day of school.”

Principal Alan Capasso assured the ninth-graders that they will enjoy their high school experience in the tight-knit community and encouraged them to create relationships with their mentors and teachers, work hard and take advantage of all the opportunities they’re afforded at the school.

Photo Captions: Croton-Harmon High School’s incoming freshmen were welcomed to the new school year by school administrators and faculty, along with their senior “Big Buddies.”

Photos courtesy of the Croton-Harmon School District