This article was written by Eliza Pratt and Alara-Ann Smith
Right on schedule, the autumn breeze ushers in a familiar seasonal shift, bringing the Class of 2030 out of the background and into the high school spotlight. Starting fall in a new environment, with new teachers and classes.
With school being in session for about a month now, the freshmen have had some time to adjust to a new building and new dynamics. The incoming 4 years are crucial in development and laying a foundation for their future, so starting the year can be quite intimidating. The freshmen offer a new perspective and a reminder of all of the great things the high school offers, from challenges in academics to opportunities in extracurriculars.
Robert Herter, 14-year-old freshman, has been in the district for 3 years now. His favorite class is currently English, and the transition from middle school to high school has been a welcome challenge—offering a sense of freedom he didn’t have before. Herter enjoys multiple things about the high school, comparing it to his previous experience and looking ahead.
“I feel like in these classes we have more time to work and do our stuff,” Herter said. “I am
probably looking forward more to arts, or when I get older, criminal justice.”
Being in the district for over eight years hasn’t stopped the initial fear of being in a new school for Peyton Rowe. As a new freshman, Rowe rates the school a solid 6.5 out of ten so far. While navigating a massive new building can be daunting, the thrill of fresh experiences and meeting unfamiliar faces in the hallways every day is something that Rowe actively looks forward to.
“Something I’m looking forward to experiencing is making new friends,” Rowe said.
Beyond the social scene, Rowe is also savoring a more laid-back approach to scheduling. Rowe now has the freedom to choose unique electives that match her actual interests, a welcome departure from the rigid, predictable blocks of core classes.
‘This time I get to pick what I want for my classes,’ Rowe said. “It’s better than the middle school because I get more freedom.”

Having moved to the district just two years ago, Nakylie Smith might be the newest to the district, but she is already focused on the future. Smith is diving into her high school years with a sense of eager anticipation, ready to build and set a customized path. Instead of just coasting through her schedule, Smith is focusing her classes on bettering her art skills.
“I’m really looking forward to criminalistics, future art classes, and anatomy,” Smith said. “For AP classes, I can’t wait to take advanced art.”
Smith first explored her creative roots in middle school; she is ready to elevate her craft at Northview. She views the upcoming years as a chance to experiment with new art techniques.
“I’m really excited to take AP Art so I can better my drawing and do fun things like painting,” Smith said.

With all the fear and anxiety that can come with entering a brand new school, incoming freshmen have the opportunity to experience a fulfilling academic year and a rewarding high school journey. Whether it be homecoming, joining a sports team, taking new classes, or meeting new people, they all have so much ahead of them. Have a great year, Class of 2030!

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