Wantagh High School’s Class of 2027 is beginning a new and important chapter in September, one that will prepare them for life after high school. Likewise, the Class of 2030 also is beginning a new journey with the start of middle school.

The students that comprise those two future graduating classes learned the ins and outs of their new schools at recent orientation programs. The high school’s freshmen orientation took place on Aug. 25, followed by sixth grade orientation at the middle school on Aug. 29.

There were two sessions for freshmen, with a club fair and pizza lunch in between that allowed the entire class to come together. They attended workshops with the guidance counselors about the school’s academic programs, extracurricular activities, support services and more. Ninth graders also attended a session with Principal Dr. Paul Guzzone and assistant principals Nick Pappas and Dr. Christopher Widmann, who welcomed them and emphasized the importance of getting involved in student life.

“The more connected you feel,” Mr. Pappas said, “the better the experience you’re going to have in high school.”

Upperclassmen led tours of the school, and Director of Guidance Frank Muzio hosted a Wantagh trivia contest. 

Sixth grade orientation began with a brief informational session for students and parents. Principal Anthony Ciuffo and Assistant Principal Rachel Quattrocchi reviewed a typical sixth grade schedule, discussed extracurricular opportunities and the recess program, and highlighted the social and emotional support programs for students. 

Parents and students were then allowed to explore the building. The incoming sixth graders had their class schedules and locker assignments, so they could familiarize themselves before the first day of school. Teachers, as well as seventh and eighth grade student ambassadors, were on hand to provide additional support.