HEIDELBERG, Germany-- Heidelberg High School hosted a welcome orientation for students from Mannheim High School and Mannheim Middle School in their auditorium May 13.
Principal Kevin Brewer and the Student 2 Student sponsorship team led by teacher Kara Mittenzwey welcomed 112 Mannheim students who will attend Heidelberg High School next year.
After an introduction to the school's programs, students were led on a tour, participated in a question and answer session, and ate lunch in the school cafeteria.
Transition assistance staff and S2S students were easy to identify in their bright yellow "Mannberg-Heidelheim" T-shirts, a slogan developed by the S2S students at a recent Military Child Education Coalition sponsorship training.
Heidelberg district transportation officer, Karen Matlock reassured incoming students that the new transportation arrangements would be transparent. She said that between the Department of Defense Dependents Schools transportation office and U.S. Army Garrison Baden WAfA1/4rttemberg Child Youth and Schools Services efforts, students would find it easy to actively participate in school events as well as CYSS programs. The Schools Liaison Officer emphasized that this transition will be a win-win situation from which all students will benefit.
"The influx of Mannheim students will strengthen our already strong athletic programs," said Jim Ruehmling, the USAG BW SLO.
Ruehmling noted the addition of seven transferring Mannheim teachers will enhance the school's academic programs through the addition of more foreign language expertise, increased Advanced Placement courses from 17 to 20 and the addition of a culinary arts program.
"Transition is always challenging and stressful, but I think that the students will find that they are coming to a great school and will be welcomed warmly into the Heidelberg High School family," Ruehmling said.
New students were reminded to stay tuned to the Heidelberg High School's Web based calendar so they do not miss any opportunities to sign up for sports or other activities which begin just before school starts Aug. 29.
"The best way to fit in to a new school is to join activities like clubs and sports," Mittenzwey said.
Student government elections will be delayed until the start of the school year in order to allow new students to participate.
Mark Twain Elementary School also held a transition event Friday, sending its first and second grade classes to Patrick Henry Elementary school for an orientation to the school they will attend next year. Third and fourth grades will travel to Patrick Henry Elementary School tomorrow for their orientation visit.
MTES fifth graders will go to the middle school for their orientation tomorrow as well.
"Being comfortable and feeling safe are critical to a good learning environment. These orientation visits are a great way to make sure that our students arrive at their new school ready to study and excel," said Principal Dolly Crooks.
Mark Twain Elementary School will close its doors at the end of the school and will be used to accommodate the increased student population at the high school next year.
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