JAY — Freshmen from both Spruce Mountain High School North and South will attend their first year of high school together when the school year begins next week.

About 120 freshmen are expected to begin classes at Spruce Mountain High School North in Jay.

But first, Principal Gilbert Eaton wants to make sure each student has a strong chance for success by offering one-day freshman and parent orientation sessions on Aug. 23 at the school.

The day begins at 1 p.m. when all students are invited to meet with their teachers and class advisers, followed at 5:30 p.m. when parents are invited to join in.

“We really want to focus on success,” Eaton said.

Planning for the event has centered on:

* Ensuring that every ninth-grade student is known by his or her teachers.

* Ensuring consistent high expectations in each ninth-grade class.

* Increasing communication between teachers and parents.

* Improving ninth-grade course passing rates and attendance, and reducing disciplinary referrals.

* Increasing ninth-grade interest in class assignments, research, clubs and activities.

* Increasing access to reading and mathematics courses to assure grade-level proficiency.

During the afternoon session, students will get to know the school, as well as the goals and expectations for them.

At 5:30 p.m. parents will share a complimentary supper with their child and the school staff, and have a chance to learn about the support available for youngsters, ask questions and get to know their child’s teachers.

Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the school, but if that is not possible, the district will provide transportation. Transportation for students after the parent session is also available if the child has no other way home. For transportation, call 897-4336, ext. 402

The incoming Class of 2016 has had a year together in adjacent Spruce Mountain Middle School, Eaton said.

With all ninth-graders about to enter Spruce Mountain High School North, the expected total high school enrollment is about 275.

Spruce Mountain High School South, the former Livermore Falls High School, will continue to house former RSU 36 sophomores, juniors and seniors for at least another year.

The RSU 73 district goal is to eventually house all high school students under one roof. The Jay School Department and RSU 36 merged last year.