This article was written by Angela Lin, class of 2019.

Many of us remember our experience coming into a new school. For many of the freshmen, they spent the first few weeks adapting to the new environment and making new friends. The third annual freshman tailgate welcomed all freshman to the lower school playground Sept. 7. The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) also held a welcome tailgate for new families.

The welcome tailgate was held in front of the 4500. Families received raffle tickets that allowed them to win prizes, including a free session to a summer session at the American Heritage Summer Institute and t-shirts. Parents were also encouraged to join the PTO.

Organized by freshman class advisor Mrs. Jessica Burns with the help of administration and the Student Government Organization, the freshman tailgate began at 6 p.m.

“The freshman tailgate was created to give the freshmen a bonding experience. 50% of our freshman are from different schools so it’s a great way for them to meet each other,” said Mrs. Burns.

Freshmen received raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes as they entered the playground. They were welcome to enjoy pizza and dance with their friends to the the latest hits, which was played by a DJ. Junior Varsity cheerleaders rallied the freshmen and taught them their chant, which is used in every football game. The raffle then commenced and several students won prizes such as pompoms and sunglasses. Freshmen were escorted by student volunteers to the bleachers to watch the game at 7 p.m.

“I had a great time at the freshman tailgate. I didn’t make any new friends, but I reconnected with one of my old friends from elementary school. It was also a great opportunity for me to hang out with some of the people I’ve become friends with this year, as most of the people I talk to at Heritage are people I didn’t know before this year,” said freshman Imani Bodet.