by Angie Heckman
news@thenewsleaders.com
New students and ninth-graders feel a lot more welcome and confident after taking part in the 13th annual Sabre Splash orientation event Sept. 8 at Sartell High School.
The first day of school is dedicated to ninth-graders and new students to give them a welcoming introduction to the high school. The day is primarily organized and facilitated by more than 100 junior and senior student mentors. Students applied for the mentor role last spring and attended several training sessions during the summer.
Sartell High School Principal Brenda Steve said the school would not be able to host this event without the support of the Sartell-St. Stephen Education Foundation and Sartell residents and businesses.
“Our teachers and students are great at welcoming the new students to the building,” Steve said. “I think it’s important for new students to realize we are all one community. It isn’t us versus them. We are all here to support each other.”
Students new to SHS are guided through the day by the mentors. Some of the things they learn during Sabre Splash include information on school policies, digital citizenship and activities that are available at SHS. They go on a building tour and a walk-through of their schedule and meet all of their teachers. The students learn and perform the school song in a large group contest, which adds to the fun of the day. A motivational speaker, Scott Greenberg, concluded the activities for the day.
Ninth-graders Carlie Hansen and Nathan Stoebe jump in the air during the rendition of the school fight song. Nathan says the best part of the day was feeling welcomed by the juniors.
Freshmen Chloe Spoden, Megan Mechelke and Kaylee Hughes chat with friends before the first activities begin. Megan and Kaylee agree they are excited for the high school experience. They said “everyone says these are the best four years of your life” and they are looking forward to learning that for themselves.
Freshmen Zachary Ittel, Jake Schelonka, Thomas Connolly and Macrae Perry all reach for a T-shirt thrown into the crowd. Noel Meyer, SHS counselor, said many Sartell and St. Cloud businesses donated items to be given out during Sabre Splash. These donations are very much appreciated. Items that were donated include the following: T-shirts, hats, gift cards, coupons, water bottles and more. The students love getting these prizes throughout the day.
