Freshman FOCUS

Friendly Outreach for a Community of Understanding and Success

The Freshman F.O.C.U.S. program is designed to assist ninth graders as they enter Ridgewood High School.  Activities have been designed to ease the immediate transition to a new building and academic setting.  This program also provides the opportunity for students to address the issues of personal development that all adolescents face through these important four years.  The goal of the course is to provide a solid foundation and sense of community that will enhance the academic and personal success for all students.

RHS Peer Counselors, carefully selected, trained and supervised eleventh and twelfth grade students, are the key element in the program.  Peer Counselors provide immediate and meaningful contact for ninth graders.  Peer Counselors reach out to a small group of ninth graders and continue to work with that same group of youngsters consistently throughout the year.

The leadership of the RHS Peer Counselors through the Freshman F.O.C.U.S. program complements the ongoing group sessions for ninth graders that are led by the professional Guidance staff.  In addition, the Principal, Assistant Principals, Media Specialists, Grade Advisors, and other professionals meet with ninth graders whenever appropriate.