On February 10th, 8th grade students visited Conifer High School to tour the campus and learn more about what their future Lobo experience may look like. The visit allowed students to explore classrooms, learn about academic and elective opportunities, and become familiar with the building before starting high school next year.
The purpose of the visit was to help incoming freshmen feel more comfortable and prepared for the transition from middle to high school. Throughout the day, students were guided through different areas of the school by peer leaders and introduced to the variety of programs offered.
Alyssa Hanzlick, an 8th grade student who participated in the tour shared her first impression of the school.
“It looks really fun,” Hanzlick said. Expressing interest in taking advanced classes like AP US History and AP geography, she also discussed her excitement about elective opportunities including choir and theater.
Her comments reflected the enthusiasm many students felt after learning about the different classes available. Seeing the classrooms and hearing about course options helped various students begin imagining their schedules as high school students.
Another student, Madeline Foster, said she felt excited as soon as she entered the building.
“I think it’ll be fun,” Foster said.
One of the main reasons she looks forward to high school is the increased independence and academic variety.
“I’m excited to be able to have some more freedom and take different advanced courses,” Foster said.
Foster also shared specific classes she hopes to take next year,
“I’m excited to take honors English and ceramics,” she said, in addition to expressing interest in school sports.
“I think I might do volleyball and basketball,” Foster said, adding that she currently plays basketball on her 8th grade team at West Jeff.
Beyond learning about academics and activities, students were also introduced to the welcoming environment of the school staff and peer leaders that guided them throughout the building and answered questions about classes, clubs, and daily life as a Lobo. The support helped many 8th graders feel more comfortable and reassured about entering a new and unfamiliar environment.
(Kanin Cadam)
“Everyone can be themselves in high school,” 8th grader Minowa Brake Eymer said.
The visit also highlighted the wide range of opportunities available including advanced and honored courses, fine arts programs, and athletics. For many, this was their first chance to see how much freedom they will have, shaping their high school experience.
By the end of the day, many 8th graders left feeling more prepared and optimistic about becoming high school students. Their business served as both an introduction to the campus and a reminder that Conifer High School is committed to welcoming and supporting its future students as they begin the next chapter of their education.
