Amityville School District holds third annual Freshman Awareness Day

More than 150 freshman, 20 senior leaders and 12 teachers participated in the Amityville School district's third annual Freshman Awareness Day Retreat held at Amityville Beach. Special Education teacher and Awareness Day Weekend Coordinator Jason M c G o w a n , along with guidance counselor, Stacy Merle, organized the event, which was filled with trustbuilding activities, and open communication opportunities, with fun and acceptance as the guiding principles of the day. "I am glad that with the support of administrators and staff, Freshman Awareness Day has become an annual tradition," stated Mr. McGowan. "This experience allows freshman to bond with one another and make new friends during what is typically a difficult transition period for them."

In addition to the large and small "family group" activities that helped bring students together and foster an atmosphere of acceptance and teamwork, a select group of seniors was on hand to share their high school experiences and offer advice to the ninth graders. "I liked when the seniors spoke to us because they really inspired me," said freshman Jerel Hill. McGowan and High School Principal Dr. Scott Andrews also addressed students, touching on issues such as responsible decision-making, and positive goal setting.

After enjoying a barbeque lunch prepared by staff members, students returned to the high school field where 11 "family groups" took part in relay races, and other closing activities. "Awareness Day was better than I thought," stated freshman Raven Blocker. It was a good way to learn things about people you didn't know well and a way to have fun with your friends."

Shown in above photo, more than 150 Amityville High School freshman participated in the third annual Freshman Awareness Day Retreat, which brought freshmen, and a select group of senior role models together, to work out the difficult transition issues that ninth graders often face when they enter high school.

Shown in the middle photo, Amityville High School Special Education teacher Jason McGowan not only coordinated the third annual Freshman Awareness Day Retreat, but also facilitated group activities and trust building opportunities.

Shown in the bottom photo, a select group of seniors was on hand at Amityville High School's 3rd Annual Freshman Awareness Day Retreat, to speak with ninth graders about the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of high school. The group will also be present to offer their support at Freshman Awareness Weekend, an overnight retreat planned as a followup to the day.

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