In a school reporting an average of 1525 students in grades 9 to 12 each year (according to the district website), it is understandably easy for students new to CHS to feel lost in more ways than one. With approximately 180 transfer students each year, Carlisle High School needs to offer options to make the transition between schools easier. That is why social studies teachers Seth and Delia Roper have created a new group for these students.

The group was formed at the beginning of this school year, calling for any tenth and eleventh grade student who is new to the school to meet and discuss school and life. The group is small with only seven regular attendees but they welcome any student having trouble or seeking more from the high school experience to speak with them about joining the group.

Groups typically run anywhere between eight and twelve weeks and they are currently in week four of their cycle. In an interview with the Ropers, they explained more about what they hope to accomplish with the new student group.

Together they are working to make a safe place for all incoming students and creating a welcoming environment from the very beginning of the school year. In the upcoming years, they aspire to build a community and encourage students to reach out and find their niche in the school.

Delia Roper said, “Our ultimate goal is to give them a place where they feel comfortable talking about whatever they need to talk about that effects being a new student.”

In the future, they are looking up to expand their group and give more options for new students to feel less alone at school especially beginning the school year. They are excited to continue helping but face issues finding students who may be reserved about joining groups like this.

Seth Roper said, “The students that we want to see are the students that would benefit the most from the group.”

If you or someone you know is feeling as if you aren’t enjoying or getting much out your time out in Carlisle, Seth and Delia Roper both have classrooms in McGowan (rooms M211 and M209 respectively) and would be happy to meet with you and incorporate you into their group.