by Brandon Kreusch

Like guppies in an ocean of sharks, freshmen are often forgotten in the wake of their upperclassman counterparts preparing for the future. However, things may be looking up for the young Barrons at Woodbridge High School.

This year has seen the introduction of Freshmen Friday News, a segment of morning announcements dedicated to the accolades of the freshmen class.

Ms. Washington, the faculty advisor to the Freshman Mentors, said she felt the time was right to bolster the newest additions to a school of 1,500 students. “I talked to some freshmen who were a little disgruntled that they [weren’t being] recognized. So I talked to my freshmen mentors and I came up with the idea of Freshmen Friday News.”

When Ms. Washington receives word that a freshman has achieved something outstanding, she meets Alexis Gonzales, Melissa Soto, and Jonathan Hemmans, the Freshmen Mentors entrusted with the news program, and together they prepare for Friday. The students, who are all seniors with accomplishments in their own right, are happy to acknowledge the newbies.

Melissa Soto said, “Freshmen Fridays are such a good thing because we inform students about horoscopes, birthdays, sports, and achievements,” said Melissa Soto.

Alexis Gonzales noted the self-esteem boost that the announcements give the students. “The freshmen feel so good about themselves because they feel recognized for their accomplishments.”

While freshmen may still be eclipsed by upperclassmen, at least now the school is aware of the great ways they’re contributing to the Barron community. And as long as they’re contributing, there will be great things to report, which Ms. Washington couldn’t be happier about. “I love seeing the happiness on their faces.”