Hooray for the Class of 2016

“How is the freshman class?” is a question I’m never sure how to respond to. Sometimes I answer with numbers, because I’m something of a data geek. In that case, I might say that this year’s ninth graders include 46 girls and 41 boys. They come from 38 different middle schools, including 20 students who are the only representatives from their middle schools. Sometimes I might describe the class by their shared passions. Before this school year began, I noted that the Class of 2016 had many very talented athletes, was super smart and curious (even by our standards), and was filled with kind, good-hearted young people. But the person behind the question “How is the freshman class?” is usually asking about their well-being. Now that they are here, I can say that this is a happy, joyous bunch. While it’s true that the novelty of starting high school hasn’t worn off, and there is much hard work yet to be done, I can practically feel the positive energy and excitement from this group. It all started off at the ninth-grade retreat in August. You can see for yourself what a good time they had!

Freshman Retreat Stars Class Of 2013

We have already documented the retreat program and in particular, the Senior Retreat. This past week, the new ninth graders in the Class of 2013 concluded their orientation by spending a day and night at Walker Creek Ranch in Petaluma. I have attended the Freshman Retreat each of the last five years, and the formula for this retreat is wonderful. Approximately 30 seniors (from the Class of 2010) led the new students in games, trust walks, and other spirited activities.

For the new students, all the months of anticipation between enrollment in March and the start of school in September melts away, as they get to know their new classmates and start to take ownership of College Prep. Though each new class is filled with smart, talented, and kind young people, there is always a shape to the personality of a class, and it usually emerges on the Freshman Retreat.

So, what do I make of the Class of 2013? I am happy to report that this group had natural spirit and positive energy in abundance! They needed no encouragement from the seniors (though they got it anyway!) to jump right in and participate fully in everything. Spirit is the word I kept using to describe the new class after we returned to College Prep. But don’t take my word for it. See for yourself!

Alums Share Knowledge with Current Seniors

The retreat program at College Prep often produces lasting memories for our students. Each class goes on a one-night overnight retreat each year. These class-bonding trips focus on different aspects of the student/adolescent experience and are an annual highlight for students and chaperons alike. Part of the Senior Retreat every year involves inviting a few members of the prior year’s graduating class to talk to the soon-to-be graduates about their transition to college.  At this year’s retreat, I was lucky enough to catch up with two members of the class of 2008, Justin S. and Tia F. They shared some thoughts with me about how College Prep readied them for college and about their transition from middle school to high school four years earlier.