Class of 2017 welcomed to L-W East

Lincoln-Way East High School teachers, coaches and staff members welcomed incoming freshmen and their parents to the school Tuesday (Feb. 5) for a Freshman Open House for the Class of 2017.

“Effort… Attitude… Spirit… Teamwork. That is what East stands for,” Dr. Sharon Michalak, told students and their parents as they gathered in the auditorium.

“I look forward to being your principal and working with you for the next four years,” she added. “We are committed to providing the experiences and opportunities necessary to maximize the academic and social growth of all students. My hope tonight is that you will get a sense of our mission.”

The future Griffins had an opportunity to tour their future high school Tuesday night with their parents and receive an explanation of how specific, required course recommendations are made.

All four Lincoln-Way High School District 210 schools hosted an open house for the Class of 2017 this week, inviting students and their parents to learn more about Lincoln-Way and what to expect at the high school level.

Lincoln-Way East and Lincoln-Way Central held open houses on Tuesday (Feb. 5) while Lincoln-Way North and Lincoln-Way West opened their schools to the Class of 2017 on Wednesday (Feb. 6).

At East’s open house, students and their parents had an opportunity to meet teachers, explore elective course options and ask questions about education programs and high school expectations.

In the gymnasium, they were able to learn about the various extra-curricular programs offered at East and talk to student athletes, club members and activity sponsors about how they can get involved in after-school activities, such as Chess Club, Student Council and Grand Griffins.

Michalak challenged students to pick one activity or sport that they want to try when they arrive at East in August.

“We want you to get the full experience of being a Griffin,” she said.

PPS Director Michele Newswander reviewed the packet of information each parent received upon arrival Tuesday night and how the school determines which course to place students in by looking at their Explore Entrance Exam, recommendations from the feeder schools and the results of a math prognosis test.

She also reviewed what courses students typically take their freshman year -- English, math, science, social science and reading as well as a semester of health and a semester of physical education or Air Force Junior ROTC.

“I am very excited that you are here tonight,” she said. “I encourage you to talk to the teachers and coaches.”

“Thank you for coming to visit your school,” concluded Michalak. “I look forward to your arrival in August. And remember, Go East! Go Griffins! Go Blue!”