West New York’s Memorial High School spent Thursday evening looking to the future with a “Freshman Parents Night” for ninth graders that was followed by an activities showcase to let the district’s eighth graders know what high school has to offer.
“The showcase is to promote the different activities, clubs, sports and about the departments at the high school,” said Principal Robert Sanchez. “We are trying to reach out to the community and [inform them] of all the great programs Memorial has to offer their children…It is basically targeted for eighth grade students and their families, but it’s open to everyone.”
This year brought new changes to the administrative staff of Memorial High School, as Principal Robert Sanchez took over for Matthew Sinisi, who retired last June. There are also several new assistant principals.
“Parents can come and meet me and my new administration,” said Sanchez.
The evening was to start with the Parents’ Night for the new freshman class, and then segue into the showcase for parents of freshmen and of eighth graders who will be freshmen next year.
Sanchez comes back
Sanchez was principal at West New York Public School No.1 for the last year and half, and before that was one of the assistant principals for the West New York Middle School when it first opened.
A graduate of Memorial High School, Sanchez also taught at Memorial for 11 years in the ESL program, and has been a coach for the girls’ track team.
“I attended school here and I taught here, so this is a nice homecoming for me,” said Sanchez.
Which club/sport to join?
The showcase was expected to feature displays from all of the departments and numerous athletic teams and clubs, as well as refreshments for visiting families. Parents could also enter for a chance to win an iPod at the showcase.
“There are going to be a lot of different sections, and tables set up throughout the gym,” said Sanchez before the event. “The school band will also be there, and the chorus will be singing. There will brochures and representatives [of each program] who will be speaking about the different programs. It gives students a better understanding about what they might want to join.”
Students will actually be able to sign up that same night for any of the clubs, programs and sports offered at the school.
“In an urban setting, where most everyone in the family works, [parents] at least have one night open to see the school,” Sanchez said.
The school sent out flyers and information throughout the district advertising the event.
“I think everyone has done a great job in preparation for the event,” said Sanchez. “Teachers are putting in of their time, and some upperclassmen also volunteer.”