Storm Irene Not Dampening School Opening Preparation

The start of the new school year is around the corner for students, but staff and programs are already in motion.

While the official student start date at the high school is Tuesday, Aug. 30, many events are already in progress, helping new students acclimate.

Link Crew is a program that assists incoming freshmen through the transition from middle school to high school through mentoring. Teachers at Trumbull High -- Mrs. Libby Intemann, Ms. Jeanette Nicolett, and Mr. Stefan Porco -- train 121 upperclassmen, known as Link Leaders.

On Aug. 22 and 23, Link Leaders convened at for 10 hours of training that included ice-breakers and leadership activities.

On Monday, Aug. 29, Link Leaders planned an orientation for new students but the event was canceled due to the forecasted effects from Hurricane Irene.

On Aug. 30,  and the following day, the same Link Leaders will be available to help freshmen find their way around school and meet teachers. Link Leaders also call incoming freshmen to welcome them and keep in touch all year through activities and events.

Jill Epstein, a senior student and Link Leader is excited to show new students how to make the most out of their high school experience.

She is also happy to return for her senior year. “Although nothing can beat summer vacation, I’m looking forward to senior year and seeing what the construction looks like."

Throughout the summer, Trumbull High School went through many changes with the continued “like new” construction.

On Aug. 25, Supt. Ralph Iassogna, welcomed teachers back and stated that the high school will open on time and under budget.

Further, the focus for the upcoming year will be positive school climate and eliminating bullying. Positive school climate is promoted in many ways. Trumbull Agriscience and Biotechnology Center holds a freshman mixer for incoming students planning to attend the program.

Sponsored by Friends of the Farm on Aug. 25, from 3:30 to 5:00 pm, incoming freshmen met their future teachers, fellow peers, and enjoyed activities and pizza.

Maria Serna, a senior representative in the Agriscience and Biotechnology program, helped lead the activities and talked about what to expect in the upcoming year. She also reflected on her last year before college.

“I never thought my senior year would come this quickly. I mean, they told me before but I never believed it. I hope the freshman realize how fast this amazing four year experience will pass by,” Serna said.

For more information on opening events, refer to the Trumbull High School website: http://www.trumbullps.org/ths/index.htm