On August 18, new-to-Parker Upper School freshmen were welcomed during Bridge, a full day of activities where students are introduced to Parker and one another.
During this year’s Bridge, the new-to-Parker freshmen participated in a full day of learning about the school, getting to know each other, and taking a trip to Navy Pier. The day started with the incoming freshmen arriving at Parker and splitting off into groups of six. Then, the orientation leaders played games with the students to get to know them and introduce themselves to the rest of their group. “I know it’s challenging to enter a new and different space,” senior and Community Committee Head Dylan Wright said. “I hope that not only I, but the other orientation leaders, can become people they can rely on and trust to be 100% there for them.” After introductions, everyone ate lunch and then went to the Harris Center for Parker 101, a presentation by Head of Upper School Cory Zeller.
Afterwards, the freshmen split into their groups again, learned some Parker lingo, and got a tour of the school led by their orientation leaders. Following the tour, the freshmen went back to the Harris Center for a special presentation from Wright that included advice about Upper School, a Kahoot game, and a Q&A with all the orientation leaders. “I hope to be a friendly face and someone who is open and honest with any questions students may have,” Wright said.
Dean of Student Life Joe Bruno brought in some freshmen classmates to join them for their trip to Navy Pier. At Navy Pier, everyone ate pizza and got to know their peers. The day ended with a ride on Flyover, an attraction that takes riders on a flight over Chicago. Incoming freshman Siobhan Tran said this was their favorite part of the day. “It was fun to do it with some of my new friends,” Tran said. “It let me get to know everyone better.”
Wright, alongside Bruno, spent the summer planning activities to welcome the new-to-Parker freshmen. “Mr. Bruno and I worked hard to make sure that this Bridge is the best one yet,” Wright said. To plan this event, Wright and Bruno met to discuss the location of the Bridge, activities for new-to-Parker students, and the benefits they hoped the incoming students would gain from the program. “I hope that students can get a better grasp on things like Student Government, the schedule, and also things that wouldn’t normally be put in a presentation,” Wright said.
Each year, Bridge features different activities, orientation leaders, and incoming students. Last year, the freshmen participated in the same trip to Navy Pier together, and Community Committee Representative junior Laylani Pomales attended. “It was my favorite activity last year,” Pomales said. “It helped the kids who weren’t talking to anybody get themselves out there.”
Bridge is run by the Community Committee Head and Representatives. As this year’s head, Wright shared her plans for the committee. “My plan for Community Committee this year is to truly make sure the new students feel supported,” Wright said, “not just during Bridge, but continuing on into the school year.” Wright plans to host check-ins, send out forms, and reach out to all of the new students until the end of the school year.
At the end of the day, incoming freshman Tayler Brewer reflected on his experience at Bridge. “Today absolutely made me feel more comfortable about going into the school year,” Brewer said. “This Bridge has told me a lot about the school and what they value.” Another incoming freshman, Cassie Rank, enjoyed Bridge as well. “It made me want to start school sooner,” Rank said. “I’m excited to hang out with everyone and meet new people throughout the school year as well.” Stella Graines, another incoming freshman, said, “It was very fun meeting new people and exciting to be in this new environment, which is Parker.” The day wrapped up with students leaving Bridge ready to start the year and carrying their first memories of Parker with them.
