Riverside Brookfield High School’s “Future Bulldog Night” took place Wednesday, January 17 from 5:30-8 p.m. The annual information night and activity fair for incoming freshman students welcomed the class of 2028.
The night started off with a presentation led by administrators, going over registration and curriculum.
“It was very helpful and very thorough. It was easy to understand. It got me excited,” S.E. Gross student Evelyn Cunningham said.
After the presentation in the main gym, families were able to peruse activity tables where incoming students could engage in conversations with student representatives and sponsors of the clubs and activities available at RB.
“I really like how they have the setup here in the gym, I think this makes it really accessible just to see everything they have going on, so it’s a new perspective on the opportunities we have here,” S.E. Gross student Annika Beil said.
The evening enforced a sense of community for the future bulldogs, introducing them to the welcoming RB atmosphere.
“We’re getting to see all the stakeholders here supporting one another,” Principal Dr. Hector Freytas said. “You need to see what the school offers, right? This kind of motivates you to come to school, to come here everyday.”
Hauser student Lucy McAllister was drawn to the basketball, softball, volleyball, and Best Buddies stands.
“I thought the presentation was good, and it made me want to go to RB more. All the stands and stuff are making me feel more prepared for high school,” McAllister said.
Senior Coffee and Tea club member Anthony Pope experienced his first ever Future Bulldog Night last night and believes RB’s activities are one of its greatest assets.
“My old high school didn’t have that many clubs, so when I got here I was surprised at how many diverse different clubs that RB does have. I think it’s just a perfect time for eighth graders to come in, see what clubs they want to do in high school, and it’s the best way to make friends is by enjoying these clubs,” Pope said.
Math teacher and Sixth Man Band sponsor Rachelle Kelley emphasizes the importance of getting future bulldogs to learn about the abundance of clubs, sports, and other activities that RB offers first hand. This event has also been useful in planning for the band’s future.
“I knew months in advance who to look out for and what instrument to play. Like if I need a drummer or a guitarist who I am going to contact.” Kelley said.
Parent Katie Nasti values the variety of options available for her student to become acclimated to the highschool environment, as well as its opportunities.
“I think it’s wonderful. I love the setup. You get everybody in the gym. You go over the important things as far as curriculum, registration, but it is not too inundating. It’s not too long, and then this is nice and open and just kind of walks around and gets comfortable,” Nasti said. “I think just the representation of all of them [clubs] is really great that you’ve got so many, and everybody’s here for something.”
Freytas emphasized the significant number of families in attendance, deeming the night as a success.
“I want to thank my entire staff, admin, division heads, coaches, sponsors, teachers, everybody that made this happen,” Freytas said.
