Rancho Cucamonga High School opened its gates to students for the first day of school on Wednesday, Aug. 6. Leadership groups such as Link Crew and ASB greeted everyone on campus while the band played different pieces of music.
Principal Azande Aikens shared some of his thoughts about the first day of school.
“It’s a big deal to us. The first day of school for some students is the first day back, for others, it’s their very first day in high school, and for our seniors, it’s their last first day, so there’s so many big moments that are happening on that day,” Aikens said.
For some students, the night before the first day of school can be filled with anxiety. For some freshmen, coming straight out of middle school, the jump to high school can feel like a big change.
“I honestly felt a bit nervous at first, but then I realized that it’s not as bad as I thought because I had people I know in my classes,” freshman Nicholai Valtier said. “I think my older brother helped me prepare for the adjustment, so it wasn’t as big of a transition as I expected.”
On the other hand, seniors contemplated their very last first day of high school throughout the night.
“Going to my last first week of school is definitely a bittersweet moment,” RCHS ASB President senior Joshua Haynes said. “I’m feeling pretty sad because I’m going to miss high school, but I’m definitely feeling excited for future activities I do in college.”
As the first bell rang, new and old students filled the hallways as they navigated through the school to find each of their classes. Along with Link Crew assisting lost students, teachers and administrators were also found around campus.
Digital film and bulletin teacher Mr. Matthew Cataldo said, “The first day of school was really hectic. We moved into a new building and room after three decades, and we don’t know where anything is, but the school is working really hard to help us adjust.”
Cataldo also shared his thoughts on his senior students who have been in his class since their freshman year.
“I’ve had hundreds of kids who have spent four years with me. It’s like a world of change and it’s weird. I have kids right now that are seniors, and when I had them as freshmen, they were tiny and they had little faces,” Cataldo said. “Not only were they little kids trying to figure out what to do, now they’re basically adults working. It’s awesome to watch the change.”
To ensure that everyone has a good school year, the RCHS community works together to welcome all students and staff onto campus.
“Some of the big things I’m looking at this year is hopefully every student is able to connect with someone on this campus like either a teacher or staff member,” Aikens said. “We want to make a good impression and show what we’re all about here at Rancho. I want our students to enjoy this school year.”
Likewise, Haynes wishes for students to enjoy their time at Rancho.
“High school is fun, just have fun. Make sure you get your stuff done on time and don’t procrastinate,” Haynes said.
