Thursday, Jan. 23, the newly annual Incoming Freshman Fair night was held in the gym and auditorium as a way to both inform and excite the eighth graders about the wonders that make up high school. Elective tables from filmmaking, to first responders, to social studies lined the gym as curious soon-to-be Buena families wandered around to see what Buena had to offer.
The night kicked off with a performance by Buena’s drumline and dance team while families filtered into the gym. Then after a short speech by principal Dr. Audrey Asplund, the new students were able to walk around and ask questions about the elective class choices.
The organizer of the event, assistant principal Tiffany Dyer, was happy about the turnout. She wanted the new students to feel as welcome as possible.
“I mean it’s a big transition… and I think easing that fear for the parents and the students is key, it’s a big shift,” Dyer said.
Each table had items on it that represented their class, in an attempt to attract people to their tables. Teachers and students of the electives were excited to represent the classes that they were passionate about.
“We took some of our materials that we’ve been using in class, and showed some of our projects,” junior Jazmmn Preciado said. She represented the 3D art table, which displayed different metal and paper sculptures.
The gym was filled to the brim with excited students and supportive parents. Dyer noted that you could feel the “good mood energy” in the gym.
While students perused the tables and learned more about Buena’s programs, they also had the opportunity to get a bit to eat outside. Two taco trucks, a Mister Softee van, and popcorn made sure to keep people’s stomachs happy for the night.
After having fun with some Buena students and learning about the classes they could take, the incoming freshmen were led into the auditorium, where they learned about the more serious things of high school; registration, athletics, and faculty introductions. Counselors Natasha Hillis and Tatum Maciel led the presentation and counselor Shannon Pelmear talked about the brand-new advanced placement program, the Capstone program, coming to Buena as well.
After a final speech on athletics by athletic director Ryan Bolland, the pending freshman families were good to go, leaving feeling hopeful for the next four years of their lives.
“I just [liked] seeing what everyone [had] to offer, I’m getting excited about it, and I’m getting hyped up for next year,” incoming freshman Elliott Cromeih said. The first responders program had him especially spirited. He was also ready for the new responsibility and independence of high school, and other students agreed.
“I’m excited to start in a high school and do all of the cool programs that I’ve heard of,” soon to be freshman Aa’layah Rowe said, “Im looking forward to the freedom, and I’m just really excited.” (PQ)
The goal of the incoming freshman night was to inspire future students and show them what makes Buena unique. Dr. Asplund, Dyer, and Preciado thought the night turned out to be a success, and hoped the message was clear.
“I hope that [after tonight] the freshmen feel like high school is not as scary as they think it is,” Preciado said, “I hope they know that people are friendly, they do care… it is a fun time, and you just have to live it up.”
