WHAT: Pioneer High School’s incoming ninth-graders will get a chance to preview their classes, meet teachers, make new friends and learn more about the Titan campus – their home for the next four years – on Tuesday, Aug. 15 as part of Whittier Union High School District’s Freshman First Day.

The student orientation program will feature Link Crew student leaders, who will teach freshmen the ins and outs of high school life before the official first day of school the following day. The program takes place annually at each Whittier Union High School District campus to help smooth students’ transition from middle to high school.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 15, Opening welcome and activities (8 to noon) Lunch with students (12:15 to 12:45 p.m.)

WHERE: Pioneer High School, 10800 Benavon St., Whittier

DETAILS: As part of Freshman First Day, Pioneer High’s new freshmen will participate in a series of activities hosted by the school’s Link Crew, which is made up of upper classmen who act as mentors to younger students. They will also participate in information sessions on helpful high school tips, including social media use, dress code and resources available at Pioneer. This school year, students can look forward to new furniture in the cafeteria, as well as the re-opening of Bergenthal Gymnasium, which will feature new wall logos in September and logos on its resurfaced floor in November. This is also the last season that Pioneer will compete in the Del Rio League before moving to the newly formed 605 League next year. The first day of school for the remaining students is Aug. 16.