Beginnings for two groups of Wantagh students are happening just a few hundred feet away from each other, as sixth graders and ninth graders start their new schools.

Orientation programs took place in late August. For the sixth graders, they are coming from three elementary schools around town, uniting for the first time as the Class of 2032. The transition is a little more subtle for freshmen who are just moving to the other side of the Colonnade, but also entering a world with greatly expanded opportunities.

The Class of 2029 was invited to their new school on Aug. 22. There were two sessions, based on last name, along with a common gathering time in between for pizza and a club fair. The orientation program featured an informational session with Principal Dr. Paul Guzzone and assistant principals Nick Pappas and Dr. Christopher Widmann, who provided a thorough introduction to the high school curriculum, student life and expectations. There were also tours of the school and a question and answer session with upperclassmen. 

Sixth graders attended their orientation program on Aug. 28, also with two sessions. Principal Anthony Ciuffo and Rachel Quattrocchi met with students and parents in the gymnasium to provide information on a typical sixth grade schedule, clubs and activities, and ID and cell phone policies. 

Then, the new middle schoolers were off. With schedules in hand, they were encouraged to walk around the school to find all their classes. Sixth graders could also access their lockers for the first time, with many taking the opportunity to decorate it.