Junior highs roll out the welcome mats for students
By Julie Rooney/Enterprise staff writer
While first-day-of-school jitters are normal for everybody, most would agree that nothing is scarier than beginning junior high.
To ease those fears, all three
The program is run a little differently at each school, but the philosophy is universal. Based on the idea of students helping students, WEB is run by student leaders in the upper grades who mentor younger ones - offering everything from a campus “hello” to forums on study skills and bullying.
“WEB is about encouraging relationships between students of different ages and backgrounds, as well as stimulating participation in our school's activities and programs,” explained Christina Schlatter, Emerson Junior High School English teacher and WEB adviser.
Teachers at all three campuses have reported a happier student body since the program began. And while younger students are gaining confidence in their new school community, WEB mentors are obtaining valuable leadership skills.
“This program gives a tremendous amount of responsibility to these student leaders, empowering them to directly effect change at their school,” Schlatter said.
Seventh-graders are encouraged to attend this year's WEB orientation where students will tour the school and learn about campus life, meet new friends and play games. There also are several surprises planned.
And once the orientation is over, WEB leaders will organize a year's worth of follow-up activities that include breakfast get-togethers, Friday night dances, and workshops to help students succeed.
WEB leaders also will be on hand the first day of school to offer assistance. Dressed in WEB shirts that are easily recognizable but change depending on the school, the WEB leaders will guide lost students, help open a locker or answer questions. School starts on Tuesday.
- Reach Julie Rooney at jrooney@davisenterprise.net or 747-8051.