Independence Middle School seventh and eighth graders got an early look at life as a Blue Devil during Independence High School’s Preview Day on September 29. The morning was designed to give students a more meaningful and personalized introduction to the high school. Rather than simply touring the building, students connected with IHS students, explored programs that matched their interests, and began picturing themselves as part of the high school community.
Before Preview Day, students completed an interest survey identifying areas they wanted to learn more about, including athletics, performing arts, art and design, STEM and engineering, business and entrepreneurship, computers and technology, health and medical careers, leadership, clubs and service opportunities, advanced academics and career-technical education.
Based on their responses, students were placed in smaller groups with classmates who shared similar interests. IHS upperclassmen led the groups, giving the younger students an opportunity to hear directly from current high school students and ask questions about their experiences.
The student-centered format was developed in response to feedback from previous years, with an emphasis on making Preview Day more interactive and relevant to each student. IMS administrators and staff accompanied students to the high school, where the morning began in the IHS auditorium before students headed into their interest-based groups.
“Our goal was to help students start picturing themselves as part of Independence High School,” said Principal Matt Faska. “Whether their interests are in academics, athletics, the arts, leadership or something else, we want them to know there is a place for them here and many opportunities to explore.”
The day also gave seventh and eighth graders an opportunity to become more familiar with the high school environment well before they entered ninth grade, helping them learn about the many academic, extracurricular and leadership opportunities available at IHS.
That evening, IHS administrators and counselors welcomed seventh- and eighth-grade parents for a presentation in the auditorium, providing families with additional information as they begin preparing for the transition to high school.
