Seniors to freshmen: Get involved

Palm Coast Observer
Neighbors

The freshman class at Flagler Palm Coast High School got a break Wednesday, Aug. 23, to learn how to make freshman year a success.

The all-day program incorporated a motivational speaker, with presentations by Student Government Association members, interactive games and a freshman pep rally.

“We’re really trying to make sure they’re set up for success for the next four years, and explain why success in your freshman year plays out toward your senior year,” said Principal Jacob Oliva. “We know that students tend to respond better to their peers, rather than a bunch of adults telling them what’s important. So we really try to focus on the peer connection of why it’s important to do well in school.”

With 703 freshmen on the books, this is the first year Flagler Palm Coast has sponsored success training on this scale.

In breakout sessions, led by student government members, presentations focused on academics and the importance of maintaining GPA, Bulldog expectations, and the importance of getting involved.

“They have to remember that they can’t take freshman year as a joke,” said SGA member Nick Monsanto. “If you screw up your freshman year, then your whole high-school experience is kind of ruined, and you can’t really enjoy it as much as you could have.”