As South Sioux City Community Schools continues its transition to an academy-based high school model, the Freshman Academy is playing a key role in helping students successfully navigate the critical transition into ninth grade.
The Freshman Academy serves as a supportive, student-centered learning community designed to ensure that all freshmen feel connected, known, and prepared as they begin high school. Rather than asking students to choose a career pathway immediately, every ninth-grade student starts together in the Freshman Academy, building foundational academic and life skills while learning about future opportunities.
“This parent meeting really is about helping families feel confident and excited about this next step into high school,” said Karen Avila, Freshman Academy Principal. “We know the transition to ninth grade can feel big for both students and parents, so this evening is designed to answer questions, build relationships, and show families how we support students from day one.”
According to Avila, the academy structure allows students to ease into high school expectations while receiving consistent support from staff who focus specifically on the freshman experience.
“Most importantly, it’s our first opportunity to welcome families into the South Sioux City High School community and let them know, you belong here and we are in this together,” Avila said.
During their freshman year, students take part in a Freshman Academy course that introduces them to study skills, organization, financial literacy, and real-world readiness. Throughout the year, students also explore the district’s three upper-level academies—Business & Communications, Construction & Engineering, and Public & Human Services—before selecting a pathway later in the year.
“All of our students begin in the Freshman Academy,” explained Julie Moreau, School Counselor for the Freshman Academy. “They don’t have to pick a pathway right away. This year is about learning, growing, and discovering what interests them, so when they do choose, they’re making an informed decision.”
Moreau emphasized that the Freshman Academy is intentionally designed to reduce anxiety and remove common misconceptions families may have about high school meetings.
“This is not conferences, and it’s not about what’s wrong,” she said. “This is all about next year and a fresh start. We want parents to come in, learn, ask questions, and leave feeling confident about what high school will look like for their student.”
Both Avila and Moreau highlighted that relationships are at the heart of the Freshman Academy model.
“This isn’t just about schedules and policies,” Avila said. “It’s really about relationships—belonging, engagement, and helping students feel known. We’re intentional about building those connections early so students start high school on a strong footing.”
Families will have the opportunity to learn more about the Freshman Academy during the Future Freshman Parent/Student Night, scheduled for Thursday, January 15, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. in the High School Little Theater. The evening will include an overview presentation, tours of the Freshman Academy, opportunities to meet staff and student ambassadors, and time for questions.
“We’ve learned that families appreciate getting the information they need in a clear, welcoming way,” Moreau said. “We want this to be informative, comfortable, and respectful of everyone’s time.”
The district will also provide translation support, including live interpretation and multilingual materials, to ensure all families can fully participate.
Following the meeting, families are invited to stay and support the Cardinal girls wrestling team as they compete at home that evening—an opportunity, Avila noted, to experience school spirit firsthand.
“It’s a great way for students and families to see Cardinal Pride in action,” she said.
South Sioux City Community Schools looks forward to welcoming the Class of 2030 and partnering with families as students take this important next step in their educational journey.