On Thursday, November 3rd, 5th graders from local schools will visit and tour Ironwood Ridge in an attempt to get a feel for high school.
The tour will be guided mainly by StuGo as well as NHS and will start with a pep assembly. There will be 3 different rotations of various CTE and Fine Arts programs. The auditorium will feature fine arts such as music and audio production, 2D and 3D art, band, and many more. The small gym will contain photography, film production, engineering, software, and other CTE programs. Lastly, the big gym will present sports med, bioscience, and nursing. Culinary will also be catering lunch for the 5th grade students by the end of the day.
“It will be a really cool way to, not just promote our school, but also give 5th graders a fun experience and a glimpse into some of what we have here at Ironwood,” stated Alissa Mcgowan, StuGo Advisor. This will be the first year that 5th grade day will occur as it was interrupted for 2 years due to Covid19.
Each station had something different to offer, all presenting a different Fine Arts and CTE program. Liam, a 10 year old student from Wilson k-8, said his favorite part was “seeing some technology” and he is interested in expanding his enjoyment in music further. Gabby stated her favorite part was “the physical side” and would like to eventually take a class that focuses on that subject.
While the 5th grade day mostly benefits 5th grade students, StuGo, NHS, and some students in CTE/Fine Arts programs also benefit from the experience. John Letkeman, a 16 year old student at Ironwood Ridge and Drama Club member, promoted Drama with a few other students. He says “It is honestly such a cool experience, I think just drama in general is like a great way to help people come out of their shell and adapt to high school.” Letkeman stated that he is glad that such young kids can get a feel for what high school is like. Byanka Alcantar says she likes “the fact they get to come to high school and they get to check out what the future is going to be like”.
Many middle school students come to high school not knowing what to expect. 5th grade day gives them years to prepare for their high school experience and something to look forward to.
