Freshmen and new students welcomed at WHS

The halls of Washingtonville High School echoed with excited chatter as faculty and staff prepared to welcome their new students, incoming freshmen, and their families. Orientation was held Wednesday morning in the WHS auditorium as families came to learn more about the school and all that it has to offer. 

Principal Brian Connolly began the morning with a small introduction and offered advice to incoming students. He encouraged them to always ask questions, make the effort to succeed and get involved at school.

“One of the most important things to me and to our assistant principals and staff, is that we provide opportunities to our students,” said Mr. Connolly. “If there is something you are interested in or something that you like, we try to make that happen for you, so get involved. That’s also how you meet people and how you find your passion.”

Mr. Connolly closed by encouraging students to be kind to each other and to always be proud to be a Wizard.

Assistant Principals Mayda Amabile, Robert Shust, and Robert Leonard were also introduced. Ms. Amabile, who is one of the coordinators for Dignity for All Students, spoke to attendees about the Dignity for All Students Act (D.A.S.A) and what it means. One of the main goals of D.A.S.A is to create a safe and supportive school climate where students can learn and focus rather than fear discrimination or verbal and physical harassment. Mr. Shust spoke with attendees about the student code of conduct and the expectations of students now that they will be attending high school. 

Orientation was filled with key information about the resources at WHS including access to ParentSquare, Schooltool, the different sports and information on what the music department offers at WHS. 

Melissa Lynch from the high school guidance office encouraged students to join activities and clubs that are offered at WHS and follow their passion. 

“I want to go back to what Mr. Connolly was talking about when he said how your pride and your passion really fuse and infuse your purpose,” said Ms. Lynch. “ If there is something you are passionate about, please join in.”

Entering a new building can be a bit nerve-racking and Suzanne Lendzian, the Director of Physical Education, Health, and Athletics at WCSD, offered students some kind words to make their transition a bit easier. 

“This is your time to challenge yourself and get involved in these clubs as so many of us have said today,” said Ms. Lendzian. “The best love story you’ll write is to yourself. Figure out who you are and try out as much as you can.”

Afterward, students got a chance to tour the high school and walk their schedule so that they are familiar with where things are located before their first day.

As students walked around the building, schedules in hand, smiles could be seen as they bumped into familiar faces in the hallway. Some students expressed a few things they are nervous about and looking forward to in the new school year. 

“I’m a bit nervous about meeting new people,” said Valentina Cortez, who is a junior transfer student. “A lot of people have known each other since middle school but I’m excited because it’s so different from New York City. I feel like it’s very inclusive and they have so much to do.”

“This school seems really cool,” said Isabella Burchette who is a Sophomore transfer student. “And we also have a lot more classes to choose from.”

“I’m really excited to get to know the clubs,” said Angelina Colon. “I went to middle school here so I’m familiar with a lot.”

“I also went to middle school here,” added Fiona Flynn. “I’m excited to hopefully join the WHS Steppers club.”

The first day of school is just around the corner and WCSD is excited to welcome everyone back on September 4, 2024!

Please visit the WHS photo gallery to view more photos