Caption: Ignition officers (l-r) Nolan Conway, Meaghan Crociata and Sofia Ikram join inspirational singer, songwriter Jared Campbell during freshmen orientation.A different building, unfamiliar faces, difficult lockers and an increased course load can make the transition from middle school to high school challenging for even the most confident student.
Thanks to Hauppauge High School’s Ignition Program, incoming freshmen begin the school year with built-in friendships, a strong sense of school spirit and the tools they need to make their first year a positive experience.
The program matches upper-class mentors with freshman providing them with the skills they need at the high school level. The students continue to meet throughout the first half of the year to strengthen team bonds and discuss topics such as peer pressure, test taking skills, discrimination, making healthy choices and the college process.
Prior to the first day of school, mentors meet with the students for a full day of group activities and team building exercises. The mentors also make sure the students know where their classes and lockers are located.
Originally funded through the Hauppauge Educational Foundation with a one-time grant, the program now runs independently through fundraising events and activities.