Story and photos by Lisa Carolin
They may be at different stages of their lives, but the transition is daunting for both eighth-graders moving up from Beach Middle School to Chelsea High School (CHS) and for fifth-graders moving up from South Meadows Elementary School to Beach.
Friday, May 25, was “Moving Up Day” for both age groups, and their destination schools were ready for them.
“The main difference between high school and middle school is that you have more choices in high school,” said CHS Principal Mike Kapolka to the visiting eighth-graders. “If you’re passionate about something like art or music, you’ll have more options here.”
Kapolka introduced the students to various administrators and told them they’ll be arriving at a time when the high school plans to update technology.
“High school is not all about academics,” said Kapolka. “It’s about social and emotional growth, too.”
The Link Crew, upperclassmen who pair-off with groups of incoming freshmen, took the stage and shared their own helpful hints to students about making the transition to high school.
The visiting students had the opportunity to learn about all the clubs and sports available to them.
Kapolka told them, “This year, Chelsea High School is ranked the 13th best public school in Michigan and the 19th highest rated high school in the state. We have 842 students, which makes us the smallest school ranked as one of the 25 best in Michigan.”
Meanwhile over at Beach, fifth-graders were being enthusiastically greeted by WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) program members. Friends Jacob Payeur and Jacob Hice said they were excited about coming to Beach.
“I’m looking forward to seeing my brother, and I hear the ice cream at Beach is awesome,” said Payeur.
“I heard the food is good,” said Hice. “And I’m going to be able to annoy my sister.”
The seventh-grade orchestra and band each played a few tunes, and then Principal Nick Angel welcomed the students and introduced all the sixth-grade teachers.
“We’re excited to have you,” said Angel. “We’ve got great people here to help.”
Angel told the students about changing classrooms during the course of each day, and that all their classes, activities, and lunches will only be with sixth-grade students.
After a few students asked questions about lockers, Angel assured them, “There’s never been a locker that hasn’t opened.”
He complimented their questions, and wrapped up his welcome speech saying, “You’ve made it. You’re here at Beach. We want you to feel like you’re part of our family at Beach.”
