(Above) The freshman class gathered for their first-ever class photo during the freshman orientation event on August 1, 2025, the week before the first day of school. Photo by Verily Coryell (’27)
A rite of passage for freshmen as they begin the new school year is having to navigate the high school campus to find their classrooms, maneuvering through the crowded hallways at passing periods, and officially being labeled as “high schoolers.” This August, the Class of 2029 kicked off their freshman year with 23 new students joining their grade.
From the snack bar tripling in size to having to share the campus with not one but three other grades, HBA freshmen are met with a lot of changes. Even for Jack Okazaki, a returning HBA student, the start of this school year felt unfamiliar. He said, “At first, it was rough as I was getting used to what supplies I needed and checking where to go before every class, but after the first few days I think I’m getting used to the high school campus and what I need.”
Eóghan Gonda, who is new to HBA, reports that he is enjoying school, in particular Government class. “I feel like [Mr. Markwith] is really good at what he does. I like his class even if Government may not be my favorite subject,” he said.
For freshmen Taylor Shinagawa and Nia Hawkins, Biology has stood out as their favorite. Hawkins said, “It has been really interesting to learn. I enjoy a lot of [the] interactive teaching styles.” The 9th grade Biology class kicked off the year with a crime scene unit and is investigating a year-long murder mystery as part of their studies. Shinagawa wrote, “[Biology] is my favorite class because it’s fun and interesting!”
Freshman advisors and teachers are also just getting to know the new freshman class. Matthew Ardo, math teacher, said, “All of the freshmen seem eager to learn. I’m looking forward to learning with all of them. They seem interested in geometry, which makes me happy.”
Robert Weismantel, a government teacher, has also noticed the freshmen’s positive attitude to school. “[The freshman] pay attention and are on task….They are following the rules. I like that about them,” he said. Regarding the newly instituted phone ban for the freshmen, he said, “They’re the first class to deal with it. Some don’t like it, and think it’s unfair, but they are overall very respectful.”
While the counselors have not had much time with the class, Danford Chang, Director of Counseling, is encouraged by what he has seen so far. “They’re full of life and energy, but a little cautious and anxious. What I appreciated was that when it was time to buckle down and listen, they did so. They are eager to try new things, and if they keep that curious attitude they will do just fine at HBA,” he said.
