The new school year is upon us after today’s new student orientation brought fresh and familiar faces to the Quad and other parts of the Palo Alto High School campus.
Standing in the Quad, Principal Brent Kline welcomed the Class of 2028 and new students highlighting the newly renovated Tower Building and the Quad, which was fenced off for construction for much of the past two years.
“After an entire summer of getting this area fixed and ready to go, you [new students] are lucky as the first class that gets to be a part of this beautiful new Quad,” Kline said. “The Tower Building was originally built in 1918 and is back and ready to go. You will see that there is a new tutoring center and wellness center in the Tower Building as well.”
At the beginning of orientation, Associated Student Body president Julian Hong announced that all students can look forward to a back to school dance this Friday. Tickets will be available on the ASB website later this week.
Members from the ASB and Link Crew led tours for the incoming freshmen and new students. According to Link Crew member and rising junior Talia Boneh, there are several places around campus that take priority with new students and freshmen.
“The 800 building is really crucial to go visit because it has both history and math classes,” Boneh said. “We will also highlight the MAC [Media Arts Center] since it’s a really interesting building and the gym because all freshmen will take P.E.”
According to rising 9th grader Emilani Haloski, the tour has helped her understand the school’s layout.
“It’s a relief because I know where my math, English and orchestra classes are now.” Haloski said. “I’m also really excited for the clubs and sports especially swimming and possibly cross country.”
New student and rising junior Atticus Aires said the overall atmosphere of a largely outdoor high school is a welcomed contrast to his previous school.
“I’m really excited this year because of the vibe of the campus,” Aires said. “It’s a lot more open here compared to my old school in New Jersey that was just one building. This school seems like a breath of fresh air.”
Further information about the schedule for the first three days of school can be found on a Schoology post by Kristine Ludemann.
