UPDATED Aug. 31: Arlington High School (AHS) was busy this summer preparing for the 2024-25 school year. From orientations for new families to essential resources for students, here’s a brief look at what has been happening over the summer and what is expected once school begins in early September.
AHS is welcoming new families. Orientation sessions took place Aug. 14 and 15, offering a chance for new students, parents and guardians to meet with counselors. These meetings, held in room 101 of the guidance office, helped parents and students with the transition, especially for those who registered after classes finished in June. Appointments could be scheduled through a Google form available on the school’s website.
Welcome back
The new school year for students starts on Wednesday, Sept. 4, for most (some of the youngest pupils are to begin Sept. 5 or 9) with a modified schedule on the first day. Ninth graders are to gather in the auditorium, while students in grades 10 through 12 will meet with their advisory teachers. The regular bell schedule will resume shortly after, featuring a five-day, seven-period rotation with a flexible X-block for extra help and activities. For most students most days, the school day is 8:30 a.m. to 2:56 p.m.
Special double event planned
On Sept. 19, the high school plans to host two events to provide information and encourage connections between caregivers, students, and faculty.
According to a letter from the principal, Dr. Matthew Janger, to student families, the evening is to begin with a new-parent/caregiver orientation in the AHS Auditorium from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. During this session, administrators plan to share details about the transition to high school, offer insights and answer questions to help families navigate the school year.
Immediately afterward, an open house will follow, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This event provides opportunity to visit the school, meet their students’ teachers and discuss more about the courses they will take this year.
Support for students who work
Summer break traditionally is a great time for students to get summer jobs. Work permits can be obtained by completing the necessary forms, which typically require signatures from parents, students and a physician, especially for those under 16. Additionally, students seeking transcripts or RMV paperwork can contact the school’s administrative staff for assistance.
Mental health, substance abuse
Avoiding substance abuse is still a concern for faculty and families, and AHS is providing support and resources. The Arlington Youth Counseling Center offers a confidential Parent Support Group, meeting on Thursday nights, to assist parents of teenagers and young adults struggling with substance use. This group, led by licensed clinicians, provides a safe space for parents to share experiences and receive guidance. For students and families seeking immediate assistance, the help line is available 24/7 at 1-800-320-5050; this statewide public resource helps find substance use treatment and recovery services.
In addition, AHS provides educational resources to fight substance abuse. Programs, such as Guiding Good Choices, supply parents with tools to improve communication with their children and prevent risky behaviors. The school also hosts occasional forums and workshops on topics such as the impact of marijuana on the adolescent brain.
Super-short sports preview
Athletics registration has begun, and contact information has been provided for coaches. This can be found on the athletics website for AHS, and so can the typical registration process for student-athletes.
Food, health services continue
AHS continues offering free school breakfast and lunch to all students, thanks to the Massachusetts law passed a year ago. Breakfast is served at 8 a.m.
The school’s nursing clinic is ready to support student health needs, including annual mental health screenings to ensure overall well-being. As a letter to parents says, “Per the APS medication policy, all medication accompanied by medication orders should be delivered by a responsible adult to the health office. For anyone wishing to drop off medication/forms or discuss student specific health care needs in advance of the first day of school, the nurses [were] available in the health office [beginning] Aug. 28 and 29.”
Janger’s letter states, “There’s just so much energy and excitement around seeing students, athletics, the building project, and studying and sharing together.” AHS personnel appear to believe that they are ready for a successful and enriching school year.
This news summary by YourArlington freelancer Yujia Wang was published Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024, and was updated Aug. 31.
