On Feb 24, 2025, Chandler High School’s AVID program hosted an inspiring all-day event, welcoming eighth-grade students from Anderson Junior High School for a special outreach event designed to welcome incoming freshmen. The day was filled with exciting activities aimed at easing the transition into high school and giving the students a glimpse of what to expect in their future academic journey.
The day kicked off with icebreaker games to help the eighth graders get to know each other and connect with their future classmates and AVID pen pals. These upperclassmen, who are currently participating in the AVID program CHS, played a key role in making the junior high students feel at ease and excited about their upcoming high school experience. Yaretzy Valenciana Macias, a sophomore and first-year AVID participant, commented, “The games definitely made everyone more comfortable and open to speaking out. Even if students came to Chandler High separated from their friends, they left with new ones!”
The AVID mentors helped guide the eighth graders through the day, answering questions and sharing advice on how to navigate high school life. The excitement continued with a pizza lunch, allowing students to bond over a meal, before heading on a tour of the high school campus. Seeing Chandler’s courtyard, JSU, and cafeteria firsthand helped ease nerves and build anticipation for the next chapter of their education.
The program concluded with a Q&A session, where the eighth graders had the opportunity to ask anything on their minds. Upperclassmen shared their experiences, offering tips on everything from balancing homework and extracurriculars to making new friends and getting involved in school activities. The impact of this exchange was clear; the younger students left with a newfound sense of confidence and excitement about their future.
But this event was more than just a tour or a fun day. It was a reflection of the power of mentorship and school community Yaretzy Valenciana Macias explained, “With these younger students, I had the chance to demonstrate leadership. I truly hope this experience will help them feel less stressed on their first day of high school and succeed during their high school years!”
As these eighth graders prepare to take their next step into high school, they will do so with not only a better understanding of high school but also with new connections, role models, and a sense of belonging. And in the end, that’s what AVID–and a great school community–is all about.
