On Wed., Jan. 14, West Essex High School held an Eighth-Grade Open House for incoming freshmen to explore the building before the upcoming school year. This event was completely run by the administration, with student volunteers present from clubs and sports teams around the school. Student council members and honors societies showed up to display the array of activities West Essex has to offer.
In previous years, there has always been a ninth-grade parent night for incoming ninth-graders, but last year, Dr. Westervelt wanted students to be included in the fun and incorporated guided tours for students. This year, they decided to change up the structure of the event to make it feel a bit more like an open house where students can come in and explore the school themselves. However, guided tours were still available if anyone wanted to jump in on one.
“I wanted to make sure that people got to see and hear what they wanted, rather than force them through a building and give them a more personalized experience,” Westervelt said.
It is important to the administration that all students feel welcome and comfortable coming into the building for their freshman year, and this event is just another way for them to get to know the building and familiarize themselves with West Essex’s many activities.
“That transition from middle school to high school can be intimidating,” Westervelt said. “It can feel overwhelming, and I think the idea is to show them we are a place that is here to open our arms to you and embrace you.”
