Kennedy staff is working on creating the class this year and will start in the 25-26 school year. Kennedy Language arts teacher, Christina Langton, is a part of directing these changes.

“I can say with confidence that it will cover study skills, job skills like resume writing and interviewing, and helping freshmen make informed decisions about which pathway or academy they plan to enroll in,” Langton said.

Langton thinks the seminar class will be a valuable addition to Kennedy. These will provide a chance for new students to learn the necessary skills to be successful.

“It is designed to help set students up for success. Instead of assuming a student has strong study skills when they enter high school, we will make sure they do,” Langton said. “Instead of assuming students can learn on their own about different career options that align with their interests, we will show them where to find that information and help connect them with resources to grow those passions.”

The Freshman seminar will substantially help students choose careers they want to pursue. Kennedy principal, Jason Kline states it will be a great opportunity for kids. However, the class needs passionate people and a good plan to be effective for students. 

“I think we have to be very clear on what is going to be done in the class so it doesn’t turn into a study hall or just where kids don’t do anything in it,” Kline said. “The key to that is going to be the teachers that teach it and we have selected really great teachers, who are really excited about teaching it, so I’m not afraid of that happening, but I think that there has to be a clear curriculum as the most important thing.”

The class will be taken into effect and offered as an elective for the 2025-26 school year. It will be a requirement for students the following year. Seniors, juniors, and sophomores will not be affected by the change.

“I’ve been asking for something like this for a very long time, so I’m excited that we’re able to offer it,” Kline said.