Students and staff welcomed the Class of 2029 to the upper school during the Matriculation Ceremony in the Zhang Gymnasium on Friday.
Frosh advisories processed into the Zhang Gymnasium, entering their high school journeys to applause from the rest of the school. After the ceremony, each frosh pledged themselves as students of The Harker School by signing the Matriculation Book and agreeing to uphold the Matriculation Oath.
“Matriculation gives the frosh a warm welcome to our school,” ASB president Luke Wu (12) said. “I hope they took away that our campus is a safe, welcoming environment where they can pursue their passions freely and grow as people.”
Head of School Brian Yager delivered opening remarks centered around the diversity of the Harker community. He called on seniors to embrace their new roles as mentors and thanked teachers for their efforts to make students’ educational experiences meaningful.
“Each of you is unique, special and a work-in-progress,” Yager said. “Some of you are apples who have not fallen far from the family tree, while others carry interest in things wildly divergent from your parents. Regardless, each of you shines your own light and emits your own color. Together, you and all of us here create our own palette of vibrant hues.”
Head of Upper School Paul Barsky urged students to embrace new opportunities and take risks while also taking time to slow down, rest and reflect. ASB president Luke Wu then welcomed the class of 2029 to the upper school, encouraging them to form connections, grow together as a class and leave a positive legacy at the school.
Honor Council member Linda Zeng (12), Student Diversity Coalition officer Elie Ahluwalia (12) and ASB vice president Amishi Gupta (12) each gave a speech highlighting integrity, kindness and personal accountability respectively. Amishi then led students in the recitation of the Matriculation Oath.
“Matriculation is important to the frosh because it gives them their first impression of what our school is going to be like,” Luke said. “They need to hear from our student leaders about our school values, which are important ideals for them to carry into the school year.”
Luke introduced the sophomore, junior and senior student council and Student Activities Board. Sophomore, junior and senior class leadership presented a video for the frosh they created about the campus, school events, useful tips and more. Frosh Sarah Thiru appreciated she was able to get a well-rounded picture of the school from the videos, which covered topics ranging from locating classes to spirit events.
“The videos connected everything really well, and I could really visualize what I wanted to see myself doing in high school,” Sarah said. “It was a great way to embrace the new students, and it made me really excited because now it feels like a new chapter, like I can start fresh and choose who I want to be.”
Vocal music teacher Jennifer Sandusky led Capriccio, and instrumental music teacher Jaco Wong directed the Harker Chamber Orchestra in performances between remarks.
Students spent the remainder of the day connecting with advisories, taking portraits and attending class orientations.