Incoming first-year students at Atlantic City High School are getting an early introduction to high school life through the school’s Freshmen Institute, a summer program designed to help students build confidence, earn credits and feel at home before the first day of school.
As part of the program, students take Freshmen Seminar, a course that allows them to earn 2.5 credits before the academic year begins. The program also introduces practical skills that help students navigate the transition from neighborhood elementary schools to the larger, more independent high school environment.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. La’Quetta S. Small said the district is committed to ensuring students begin high school with the support and confidence they need to succeed.
“At Atlantic City Public Schools, we want to ensure that every student starts high school feeling welcomed, prepared and empowered to succeed,” Small said. “Freshmen Institute gives students a head start academically while helping them develop the confidence, connections and sense of community that are essential for success. We want every member of the Class of 2030 to know that they belong here, and that we believe in their ability to achieve great things.”
Freshmen Institute gives students an opportunity to learn the building, meet staff members and classmates, understand expectations, and begin developing habits that can support their success throughout ninth grade. The program is designed to reduce first-day uncertainty and help students begin the year with a stronger sense of belonging.
Principal Dr. Constance Days-Chapman said the Freshmen Institute is an essential part of preparing incoming ninth graders for a smooth transition to high school.
“Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to explore the courses they will take, learn about the rich history and traditions of our school, become familiar with our staff, and begin building meaningful relationships with their peers,” Days-Chapman said. “Most importantly, they start developing a strong sense of Viking Pride and belonging before the first day of school.”
Students also explore a variety of engaging elective courses, including Africana Studies, STEM, Biomedical Science, TV Production, and other offerings that expose them to academic pathways and career-connected learning opportunities available at Atlantic City High School.
Mural Arts Program
Days-Chapman said that this year students also participated in a new school mural program.
“Contributing to a lasting piece of artwork not only helped them connect with our school community but also allowed them to begin leaving their own legacy at Atlantic City High School,” Days-Chapman said.
Biomedical Science
Students were introduced to Biomedical Science teacher Jaclyn Sarnese. One of the highlights of the program was a demonstration of the school’s virtual reality cadaver table. Senior Antoni Scott, who plans to pursue a career as a forensic pathologist, assisted with the presentation.
Sarnese explained that the table comes preloaded with six cadaver programs.
“We can isolate body parts and make virtual incisions to determine the cause of death,” Sarnese said. “These are all bodies that have been donated to science.”
The incoming freshmen watched with fascination as Sarnese demonstrated the technology. While many students expressed excitement about the program, Sarnese explained that they must complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in Biomedical Science and working with the cadaver table.
Scott said the experience provides valuable exposure for students interested in healthcare careers.
“It gives you an opportunity to do autopsies and simulate procedures that you don’t necessarily have access to,” Scott said.
Athletics Guest Speaker
Kent Fowler, an agent with The Pacesetters Group Sports and Entertainment Agency, of Las Vegas, spoke with student-athletes about the importance of personal responsibility and long-term thinking.
“The mission has to be bigger than the moment,” Fowler said. “You have to analyze your situation daily. Outside of sports, do you show up on time? Everything you do is building your brand.”
Fowler later said that many talented athletes fail to reach their full potential because they allow temporary setbacks to derail their larger goals. Others do not realize that their daily actions contribute to their personal brand and reputation.
“They have to take control of their narrative,” Fowler said. “I help them shape their narrative.”
Vice Principal Dr. Sheree N. Alexander said the program encourages students to expand their thinking and begin developing meaningful connections with their peers.
“We have courses and activities that allow them to work collaboratively,” Alexander said. “We want them to become true Vikings.”
By helping students become familiar with the school, coursework and culture of Atlantic City High School before classes officially begin, Freshmen Institute aims to make the transition to high school less stressful and more successful.
“It provides fun, engaging, hands-on cooperative learning and team-building opportunities,” Alexander said. “We want them to get the best out of their experience.”
Building a Foundation for Success
Alexander said dedicated staff members are a key part of the program’s success. Jason Lantz, the district’s elementary sports teacher coordinator who also works with the district’s summer programs, said students who participate in Freshmen Institute arrive better prepared when the school year begins. Thomas Kelly, who
also works with the program, agreed. Every staff member is important from instructors to secretaries and security officers, Alexander said.
In addition to academics, students learn mindfulness techniques and engage in character development activities. The program also includes a restorative practices component that teaches students how to repair relationships through accountability and effective communication.
“We teach them how to problem-solve,” Alexander said.
Days-Chapman said the Freshmen Institute gives students who take advantage of the opportunity a strong foundation for future success.
“My hope is that every student leaves the Freshmen Institute feeling welcomed, empowered and prepared for the opportunities ahead,” Days-Chapman said. “I want them to understand that they are now part of the Viking family, a community that believes in their potential, supports their growth, and encourages them to strive for excellence both inside and outside the classroom. We are excited to welcome the Class of 2030 and look forward to an incredible four years together. Viking Pride, Viking Strong!”
