Hewlett Happenings

Students receive a spirited PAL-powered welcome

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On Sept. 5, students were welcomed back to Hewlett High School by a new tradition: the Student Council greeted their peers by handing out pens and pencils, along with inspirational quotes and raffle tickets.

The raffles were for prizes including school spirit clothes and gift cards to local lunch spots. The raffle winners were announced throughout the school day. Students were also welcomed by the football and cheerleading teams, boosting the school spirit before students even walked into school.

William Galati, our new principal, is planning to foster school spirit and increase student involvement in various activities, while also making sure that students find success academically. He worked closely with the Student Council to plan the festivities for opening day.

Surely, it is expected that returning back to school would be nerve-racking. New classes and new teachers are enough to cause some anxiety, especially for the incoming freshmen. The first day events and the support of the teachers and administration made the transition much easier. The faculty also helped to boost morale and create a welcoming environment by wearing Hewlett Bulldog attire.

The ninth-graders were part of an orientation program in August called Freshman Focus, led by current high school students and teachers, to ease the transition into high school. Freshmen were also welcomed on the first day by the PALS, which is the student-led Pupil Personnel Service’s orientation group. Sporting their blue shirts, the PALS were easily recognizable, and the freshmen knew that the PALS were there to help.

A new adjustment for students this year is the updated security system. Students will now need to have their student IDs on them at all times to allow them entry into the school, and will only be allowed to enter or exit the school through the two main entrances. While students understand that this is for their safety, it will definitely be an adjustment.

With Homecoming earlier this year than usual, activities started right away. Spirit week will get under way on Sept. 17, to get the student body excited and spirited for Pep Rally and the homecoming football game. On Sept. 21, the Pep Rally will take place. The following day, Homecoming will include a parade and the varsity football game against Glen Cove.

Clubs and sports at Hewlett High School are in full swing. Preseason for sports teams started prior to the beginning of school and clubs are planning goals for the year.

With so many opportunities for students to get involved, they are definitely keeping busy, lessening the first few weeks of school jitters. Students at Hewlett High are excited for the new year and are taking advantage of all of the opportunities that the school has to offer.