As we enter the 2025-2026 school year, we are welcoming 212 new freshmen students and 50 transfer students. The freshman class is one of the biggest classes in the entire school! These first two weeks have been a shock to most freshmen, as they try to adjust to the new schedule, environment, and classes. High school is not the same as middle school, and it can be a struggle to adapt; but some are already taking it head-on. Volleyball, cheerleading, football, golf, cross country, and swimming have all started and some freshmen have been challenging themselves and competing. Clubs and activities are already filling up with great participation, and we know that after the club fair, activity will increase!

Some upperclassmen have offered their advice to the new freshmen:

Andreena Saint-Issert: “Get involved with everything! Don’t be afraid to talk to your teachers to know what to expect from them. Be friends with people who are where you want to be. And make sure to study for the SATs now!!!”

Sebastian Tineo: “Start figuring out what you want to do in the future and what classes you want to take to get there. Don’t get your permit too late.”

Danielle Morales: “Get in as many clubs as you can so next year you can get a leadership position.”

Gannon Melley: “Don’t fall behind in work; and if you don’t know how to study, learn now.”

Graciela Gonzalez Sanchez: “Get involved! Newman is a family and we are happy that you are apart of it! Also, make sure to get good grades and maintain good relationships with your teachers!”

Nate Parks: “Make sure to get all A’s and B’s and take all honors classes. It’s important to build your resume early.”

Max Griffin: “Talk to me and I’ll be your friend. And make sure to study and work hard!”

Keishanna Dejoie: “Make sure to make a lot of friends and surround yourself with good energy!”

Cloe Stimphil: “Don’t listen to the haters. Be outgoing and talk to more people, since you need connections for the future. Speak up for people, they’ll be grateful. Enjoy your time in high school since it’s the last part of your childhood. Have fun! Don’t be afraid to be ‘cringey,’ especially when you get to your senior year.”