Boomerang Project a hit as CHS welcomes frosh in style

With abounding spirit and magnetic energy, the upperclassmen at Canton High welcomed freshmen into their school with an orientation day unlike any other.

Upperclassmen applaud as incoming freshmen enter the CHS gymnasium.

Rolling out a figurative red carpet, 60 juniors and seniors formed two lines and cheered as freshmen entered the gym like rock stars and superheroes.

“I liked how they all clapped; it was a great way to welcome us,” said Ravindra Bangari, Jr.

“It was awesome. I felt famous,” said freshman Sharon Kelly, who took her seat on the bleachers waiting for the rest of the day to unfold.

Because of the foresight of staff and administration, the generosity of the Canton Alliance for Public Education, and the enthusiasm of the students, the new high school transition program, called the Boomerang Project, succeeded in creating an atmosphere of acceptance and excitement to kick off the school year.

According to the project’s website, studies show that if students have a positive experience their first year in high school, their chance for success increases dramatically.

“The program improves academic performance, increases attendance, and decreases discipline referrals,” said Assistant Principal Henry McDeed, who received extensive training for the project, as did K-12 wellness coordinator Peter Boucher and high school guidance counselor Kara Kilroy.

Also on the staff team, Heather Sullivan, secretary to the assistant principal and advisor to the senior class, worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of the day. “Our goal is to have the kids feel comfortable and make them want to come to school,” she said.

After the rousing welcome, Boucher broke the ice with games and exercises to promote good will and friendship. “The activities encouraged everyone to work together,” said Boucher, who felt the day exceeded expectations and that “all signs pointed to an incredibly successful launch.”

Members of the junior and senior classes had been trained as “link leaders” — the positive role models, mentors, and motivators who will work closely to connect with every freshman throughout a potentially overwhelming and challenging year. Eventually, each student in the Canton Public Schools will go through the Boomerang Project Link Crew experience.

Link Crew member and senior class president Joshua Sheehan thought the day made the transition smoother for the freshmen. “We’re one big community and not separate grades,” was the message he hoped was conveyed.

Incoming Canton High freshmen participate in one of the Boomerang Project exercises.

As freshmen, both Kate D’Orazio and Matt Sidney, now seniors, felt unprepared. “The goal is to make them less nervous about the first day of school,” explained Sidney.

“I felt I couldn’t ask for help when I was a freshman,” added D’Orazio. “I want the incoming class to figure out as soon as possible that they are part of the school.”

During the morning, small groups of students met with two Link Crew members for a series of getting-to-know-you activities, which was followed by a tour of the school. At the end of the day, all reunited for pizza and beverages.

Freshman Caroline Titus summed up the significance of the day: “Orientation day got everyone together as a group. We had fun and we all helped each other out.”

The Link Crew will continue to provide a variety of both academic and social follow-up activities throughout the year — starting with a cookout, which is planned for later this month.

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Posted by Ruth Weiner on Sep 9 2010. Filed under Features, Schools. Both comments and pings are currently closed.