By Alex Bosworth
News Writer
Photos by Alexis Rizzi

Incoming freshmen experienced a taste of Metea LIFE at Eighth Grade Open House last Thursday. Current eighth graders from Granger, Hill, and Still were invited to the school to learn about what Metea offers, regarding both academics and extracurriculars.

Everyone was introduced to our school’s environment and a few traditions when they were welcomed by the pep band playing the Metea fight song.

“I think this is a way to really get them hooked into the excitement of high school, and what it’s going to offer to them, both academically and socially,” dean Jennifer Rowe, dean of the Class of 2020, said.

Students and their parents were introduced to members of the administration, and were encouraged to meet teachers of core and elective classes to learn about academic opportunities they would have during their four years at Metea.

“[Freshmen Orientation] helped me a lot by giving me an idea of what AP and honors classes are going to be like compared to regular classes,” incoming freshman Dakota Lohman said.

The hallways and commons were filled with booths representing all the clubs, sports, and other after school activities Metea has to offer. Parents and students were able to learn all about opportunities that are new and different, compared to the middle school level. The booths were run by current Metea students involved in extracurriculars, all of whom were enthusiastic about new students coming to our school.

“I think one of the nice things is seeing our current students come out and be welcoming and supportive of the incoming freshmen class, the Class of 2020,” Rowe said. “That’s one of my favorite parts is come out and showcase everything that Metea has to offer.”

From the student perspective, freshmen orientation can make it easier to make the transition from middle school to high school.

“It kind of eases everyone into the spirit of going into high school,” junior Christine Miller said. “It’s pretty scary, everyone’s heard that before, but just seeing all of the opportunities makes things a lot more exciting.”