1. Freshmen Orientation  A solution to helping the transition to high school  Bridging the gap between upperclassmen and freshmen

2. Why Freshmen Orientation ? SBecome familiar with new building, teachers, rules, and peers SAdjust to different schedule, classes, and higher expectations SUnderstand peer relations with older students H Help change school climate and student involvement which is in conjunction with PL 221 H Less work for administrators at the beginning of the school year

3. What is Freshmen Orientation?  A mentoring program where seniors and juniors spend time helping 4-5 freshmen each make a smooth transition to high school by making the aware of school policies, atmosphere, and unwritten rules, and getting them involved in school functions

4. Mentor Training Day - Spring 4 Understanding mentor goals for program 4 Learning active listening skills 4 Team building 4 How to work with people of different backgrounds 4 Rehearse Kick-off Day

5. Freshmen Kick-off Day- Fall *Phone call to freshmen from mentors *Advertising an early schedule pickup and locker check *Meet administrators and teachers *Meet other freshman and mentor for the year # Feel at ease about first day # Know someone to contact with questions # Met important people and learned important info # Feel more organized and prepared for class

6. Mentoring Program àDoesn’t stop at Kick-off Day àMake opportunities to have contacts throughout the year àSocial events, club sign-ups, grade checks àKeep the comfort level of the freshmen high

7. Action produces RESULTS  Reduction in discipline referrals  Reduction in suspensions/expulsions  Reduction in hazing  Reduction in absences/ truancies  Reduction in failing grades/dropouts  Reduction in anxiety z Everyone is happier working together to make school a safe, comfortable environment to learn