Westside High School welcomed incoming ninth-grade students last week, giving middle schoolers an opportunity to explore the campus and learn what to expect as they transition to high school.

The visit marked the first time the school has hosted an event focused on introducing rising freshmen to the building, schedule and overall high school experience.

“It was really a first-time opportunity for rising ninth graders to come over, get a tour of the building and get acclimated to how the building is set up,” Principal Jay Dostal said. “We really just wanted to celebrate them, welcome them into the building, have them have a little fun, but also get a little bit of information and get them excited about coming to high school.”

Students spent about three hours at the high school, where they met with counselors, toured the building and participated in activities designed to familiarize them with daily life at Westside.

“When they first came here, they were either in the auditorium or room 220,” Dostal said. “They had a talk with our counselors about what the modular schedule is and what they can expect from it. After that, they were given tours by staff members and some of the eighth-grade teachers that came over with them, and then they ended in the main gym with a pep rally.”

The visit concluded with a pep rally in the main gym, giving students a glimpse into Westside’s school spirit and athletic culture.

Dostal said the event was organized largely by student leaders from Red Shield, who helped plan and run the activities.

“That was completely driven by our Red Shield,” Dostal said. “We really wanted our student leaders to be able to talk to the students, give them some advice and feedback from their time at Westside and help prepare them.”

Red Shield members also organized games and interactive elements to engage the visiting students.

“They came up with the games and wanted to get the T-shirt cannon out because they’re going to see that at football games,” Dostal said. “They just wanted to show that we do have fun at Westside, and I thought it was a unique addition — something we’ve never done before.”

School officials said the goal of the visit was to help students feel more comfortable and confident before entering high school next year.

As the incoming freshmen prepare for the next stage of their education, the experience offered an early look at the environment, expectations and opportunities awaiting them at Westside High School.