For the 226 new Ravens joining the community in 2024-25, the first day of school was made a little less daunting through a robust slate of welcoming summer programs that culminated with on-campus orientation on Wednesday, Aug. 14.

For many of these students and their families, their connection to Ravenscroft started with summer get-togethers with classmates, spearheaded by volunteers from the Parents’ Association. A new Middle School program, PALs (Peers As Leaders), in which returning students connect with new students to help them feel welcomed, and the Middle and Upper School Ravenscroft 101 sessions brought even more first-time Ravens to campus in the final weeks of summer.

Director of Parent Engagement Sarah Baker, who works with Admissions staff to support the transition for newly admitted families, said all of this programming is intended to help facilitate a sense of belonging for all new Ravens.

“We’ve had so much interest in these programs, and they’ve been really well attended,” she added. “It’s been gratifying to see how excited our new families are about being here!”

During two orientation programs in the Lower School yesterday morning, both new and returning students had the opportunity to visit their classrooms and meet their teachers and classmates. Middle School and Upper School welcomed new-to-Ravenscroft students and their families — as well as returning students in the gateway classes of sixth and ninth grades, respectively — in the afternoon. Families also had the opportunity to attend an Information Fair in Warner Arena, where representatives from Transportation, Dining Services, the Jones Health Center, IT and more were on hand to answer questions.

Lisa Vinikoor-Imler, whose daughter begins sixth grade as a new Raven this year, said, “In advance of the first day of classes, our family has taken advantage of the multiple opportunities to get acquainted with the school and some families. We participated in well-planned events, such as the PALs meet-up, the ice cream social and Middle School Orientation. Each offered insights and experiences that have us feeling prepared and excited for the start of the school year.”

Returning Raven Diego Thompson ’28, who as a ninth-grader is entering a new division, said, “My experience at Upper School Orientation was very helpful. I was able to learn the floors in the building, the different areas of classes and much more! I feel very confident about my understanding of the building now.”

Parents and guardians are invited to learn more about getting involved at the Parent Groups Volunteer Fair, taking place Friday, Aug. 23, at 8:15 a.m. in the Keim Center for Innovation and Research. Head of School Derrick Willard will share a welcome and brief remarks as families enjoy the opportunity to connect with representatives from the school’s five parent-led organizations.