The beginning of a school year is a time of transition, and never more so than for our freshmen. Key to our program is the belief that each student should feel embraced and celebrated, and Freshman Retreat presents the perfect moment to demonstrate that philosophy to our newest Central family members. Freshman Retreat is a two-day sojourn to camp where students can learn about one another, about the school, and about themselves. “Being up in Camp Kaylie gives the retreat a wholesome, welcome, and fun feel,” says Student Activities Coordinator Leah Moskovich. “It is the perfect way to kick off the new school year and the freshmen’s high school experience.”  Ms. Beverly Segal, Associate Principal, adds that “Freshman Retreat is a wonderful opportunity to break the ice as we build a community together.”

According to Ms. Moskovich, “the Freshman Retreat is designed for the freshman grade to get to know one another through ice-breakers, team-building activities, and interactive learning sessions,” and in that spirit, the fun got off the ground as soon as our students got off the bus! They got to know one another formally over icebreakers like “Fruit Salad” and “Pillow Talk,” and informally as they worked in teams during rousing games of “Paint Wars” and “Duct Tape Boat Wars.” Among the highlights of the retreat were wacky games led by Powerhouse Studios and a spirited and “warm” bonfire. Participants also had a blast enjoying the many facilities of the Kaylie campus, including go-karting, sports, and swimming. Joining the new freshmen were the senior “Big Sisters,” each of whom has been appointed to support a few freshman “Little Sisters.” Throughout the school year, the Big Sister/Little Sister Program, spearheaded and run by Director of Student Guidance Danielle Wyner, creates fun and oftentimes wacky opportunities for Central novices to forge bonds with their fellow Little Sisters as their more experienced Big Sisters provide a listening ear and sage advice. Freshman Grade Level Coordinator Aliza Gewirtz was blown away by the palpable sense of community. She was “so impressed with the maturity of our Big Sisters, who gave the freshmen a wonderful Central welcome.” Ms. Moskovich agrees: “The Big Sisters did an incredible job showing the freshmen how much Central has to offer, while expressing leadership, responsibility, and great enthusiasm.” The freshmen, too, made an impact. “This is a very special group of girls,” said Mrs. Gewirtz, “and we’re so happy to have them as part of our school.”