Members of Bellport High School’s Class of 2023 jumpstarted their high school careers during the school’s annual freshman orientation, held on Aug. 20 in the auditorium. Faculty were on hand to welcome new students, encourage them to become involved members of the school community and assure them that their doors are always open.

Principal Timothy Hogan reminded students that they’re responsible for their actions and academics moving forward. 

“We want you to build the strongest resume you can build, so when you leave Bellport High School, you will have choices,” Mr. Hogan said. 

In addition to meeting administrators and faculty, students learned about sports eligibility, guidance goals, and academic and behavioral expectations. Director of Athletics, Health and Physical Education Robert McIntyre encouraged students to try out for multiple sports but warned that athletes have to be focused to make it to the athletic field and court. “We are here to help you succeed academically and to prepare you for the rest of your lives,” Mr. McIntyre said, “but you have to have a conviction or focus to be on the athletic field.”  

In addition to introducing each of the guidance counselors, Interim Director of Guidance Ingrid Hrvatin encouraged the students to have a dream and work hard to succeed. 

“We’re here to support you,” she said. “All you have to do is have a dream, work hard towards that dream, and you can be anything you want to be.” 

After the students and accompanying parents were introduced to PTSA representative Candice Sweeney, COMPASS Unity Project Coordinator Lynette Murphy, freshmen advisers Catherine Johnson and Amanda Toscano and student council adviser Ellen Hoffman and members of the executive board, student council volunteers paired up with students for a tour of the building. There was a student presentation by motivational speaker Chris Poulos about character development and making healthy choices. A parent presentation by HUGS, Inc. representative Kym Laube also assisted parents with their children’s transition from middle school to high school. The program concluded with refreshments in the senior courtyard sponsored by the PTSA.