WELCOME TO THE PRIDE: Junior Aidan Tripodo helps eighth-grader Bryce Ratka plan out his course schedule for the freshman year during Thursday night's Grand Opening Event for the Class of 2026.
More than 120 join Grand Opening for Class of 2026
More than 120 eighth graders from 27 elementary and middle schools enjoyed a sneak peak on Thursday of the excitement that lies ahead for them as NDCL students for the next four years.
Dubbed the "Grand Opening for the Class of 2026," the program began with students finding and opening their lockers, which contained their schedules for the evening as well as souvenir t-shirts and even Chipotle gift cards for some especially lucky participants. Our current freshmen generously volunteered to vacate their lockers so the eighth graders could borrow them for the night.
Students then created draft course schedules from NDCL's list of 115 courses and played charades with student ambassadors to explore activities available during our daily Lion Time. They also worked in teams to unlock mystery boxes—and win Jersey Mike's gift cards—using clues found in NDCL publications.
The Grand Opening concluded with participants receiving personalized replicas of the high school diplomas that NDCL looks forward to awarding them in May 2026.
Director of Admissions Mr. Michael Suso '03 and Assistant Director of Admissions Mr. Pete DeMichele planned and directed the popular event with the help of an enthusiastic team of faculty and student volunteers.