Within the walls of Salem High School, there is a strong belief felt by students and staff: “We are a family of learning and achieve excellence together.”

On Thursday, February 7, a registration orientation program, designed to show the incoming freshmen class a variety of electives that can offer a career pathway, was held.

According to Earth Science Teacher Wes Lester, February is the appropriate time of the year to hold such an event for two reasons: all of the freshmen have had a chance to settle in the school year, and it gives them an opportunity to think about their future options.

“My high school experience was less than thrilling because I was at a loss of direction in life. One of my goals is to make high school a warm, welcoming place for our students and make sure they are cared for in the best possible way,” Lester said. “Being a teacher in Salem City Schools is the most rewarding career I could ever imagine having. Events like this are a major reason why.”

When Azyah Burnett began her freshman year in 2015, she was encouraged to utilize the resources at her disposal and start planning for her future. Last Thursday, Burnett, now a senior, gave that same advice to the current freshmen. In the fall, Burnett plans on attending George Mason University and studying child physiology.

“It’s very important to show the freshmen all the opportunities they have at the high school and give them a taste of what it’s like being in the classroom setting,” she said. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my high school experience. My favorite subject would have to be Early Childhood Education. Working with children is a strong passion of mine. By taking a class that is truly on my pathway to what I want to do, I feel like I’m more than prepared to start the next chapter of my life.”

As a West Salem Elementary student intern, Hannah Terry’s responsibilities include assisting with work and leading morning activities. The senior says she has had 23 different teachers throughout her high school career. Terry plans on attending Virginia Western Community College in the fall and obtaining her associate’s degree before transferring to a four-year university to get her bachelors. Throughout the day, she kept emphasizing to the freshmen why it is important to build healthy relationships.

Watching students grow both academically and athletically is what Keith Doolan enjoys most about his job as the school’s coordinator of athletic training. His colleague, Art Teacher Patty Pope, feels the same.

“When my students in Ceramics start out knowing nothing at all, I am always rewarded with seeing the learning visually. All of my students produce Ceramics. Some love it more than others, but most love the classes and learning,” Pope said.

Added Doolan: “Getting to know different students and working with them in the teaching capacity excites me every time I walk through the school doors.”

Each year, a new group of incoming students joins the Salem High School family. Assistant Principal Jeff Byrd looks forward to that journey every fall.

“It has been a privilege for me to have worked at Salem High School since August 2001. During the majority of those years, I taught math to ninth-grade students. I have enjoyed providing students with opportunities, such as the registration fair, where they can explore their interests and plan for the future.”