Incoming freshmen at Richards High School in Oak Lawn received special treatment at Thursday Back to School Bash, geared to help new students feel welcomed and excited.
This was in addition to Friday’s freshman-only first day of school, which allowed students time to meet their teachers, learn to work their lockers and get help with classroom technology.
Thursday’s event included free food, open gym, a DJ, movies in the theater, an obstacle course and getting student IDs.
Principal Mike Jacobson was decked out in bright yellow jogger pants and sunglasses to greet students.
“We did last year coming out of COVID because the kids really didn’t have too much to do,” Jacobson said. “But this year, we have about 250 kids here, which is 50 more than last year. And we’ll probably get more as the night goes on. Those are just the ones who filled out an RSVP.”
Jacobson said he’d like to start doing such events for the entire student body.
“We’d like to up our social outings to once a month,” Jacobson said. “Give all of our students an open gym concept for them to go and have fun.”
Debbie Swanson, activities facilitator for Richards, said the event is also a great ice breaker.
“You can see when they walk in the door, they’re nervous,” Swanson said. “Some of them show up here and don’t know a sole, and I commend them. But they also might make their first friends tonight. You’re here for the next four years. You’re home now.”
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Swanson said three volunteers for the night were alumni, which fosters a slogan of always belonging to the Richards community.
“Once a bulldog, always a bulldog,” Swanson said. “The two DJs tonight are graduates from 2009 and 2010, so it’s great for kids to see them living that slogan.”
Also present were upperclassmen, who welcomed freshmen and answered questions they had about the Richards experience. One was Emari Washington, who is beginning his senior year.
“I wanted to volunteer and give the freshmen an insight on what to expect from Richards,” the Oak Lawn resident said.
When asked if he had any advice for freshmen, Washington said “I would’ve challenged myself when I came in, because I thought high school would be super hard, but it really isn’t as long as you prioritize what you have to do.”
Kevin McKirdie, of Oak Lawn, said he was both excited and nervous to begin at Richards.
“Tonight I’m looking forward to basketball and volleyball in the gym,” McKirdie said. “This is definitely helping with me coming in, getting me ready for the first day tomorrow.”
Jack McLaughlin, of Chicago Ridge, said he was excited and admittedly nervous.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know the building tonight, it will help make tomorrow easier,” McLaughlin said. “I’m excited about high school, though. I want to get involved in cross country and look at what else they have. I haven’t met anyone yet tonight, but I know that will change.”
Hannah Kohut is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.