Welcome, Class of 2015!

Although first semester has only just ended, Washington Irving eighth graders can now call themselves “incoming freshmen.”

The future Spartans have already begun signing up for classes, choosing their sports, and—in an event dubbed the “Irving Invasion”—spending a morning at WS.

“We want them to get acquainted with West Springfield, from what electives to take, to what to get involved with,” said Assistant Director of Student Activities Betsy Fawsett, who coordinated Irving Invasion along with Activities Director Andy Muir.

First, the eighth graders went to the Auxiliary Gym to learn about the elective classes WS offers, and to the Main Gym for clubs, sports, and other activities.

WS students worked tables for the activities they participate in, talking to the eighth graders about the different advantages and commitments involved. Irving students had the opportunity to sign up for emails from the clubs and sports they were interested in.

“I don’t think it was well organized,” said rising freshman Sarah Ehtisham. “It was really confusing, and some kids got lost.”

After the electives and activities information sessions, the eighth graders went on tours of the school, led by SGA students from the leadership class. They explored the hallways, library, cafeteria, and classrooms.

“It was good that they had a student leading them around who could give them helpful hints like, ‘Maybe you shouldn’t go up senior rail,’” said senior Emily Esposito, who led a tour.

Irving Invasion ended with a musical performance in the auditorium. The Madrigals opened with the national anthem, followed by performances by the chorus department, band department, Personality, jazz guitar ensemble and dance team.

“The dancing was the best part,” said Ehtisham. “It was really cool; I wish I could get into dance.”

Finally, the Irving students were each given a “Class of 2015” t-shirt, and they returned on the buses to Irving. The freshman orientation process will continue throughout the rest of the school year and the summer. It will include counselor presentations, information sessions for parents, and an official orientation day during the summer in which freshmen visit each of their classes and find their way around the school.

 “We want them to be comfortable with the transition. Being a freshman can be scary; we’re trying to ease some of those fears,” said Fawsett.

Undoubtedly, the beginning of freshman year is always difficult. Freshmen not only have to deal with tougher classes, but also with being in a school with four grades instead of two. Making sure they at least know their way around can only make the experience easier.

“They seemed excited and nervous, which is good because you don’t want them to have a ‘rule-the-school’ attitude, but you also don’t want them to be scared,” said Esposito. “I think they’ll have fun. High school is fun.”