The first day of high school for a freshman is a major milestone, and for some it can feel like a major stumbling block. Figuring out what to wear, what to take, where to go, and all those other questions can seem overwhelming.

Fortunately, Woodrow Wilson High School has started a program this year that will help freshmen through the first days of school and their entire first year.

Kick-Off Mentoring is a program that matches freshmen with upper classmen who have volunteered to be mentors. About 70 juniors and seniors spent a day in mentoring training last spring. On Aug. 14, they met their freshman protégés for the first time during an orientation session at Woodrow.

The half-day orientation included ice-breaker games, question-and-answer sessions, and even dance moves. On the first day of school, Aug. 25, mentors will wear distinctive T-shirts as they connect with their protégés, including the ones who did not attend the orientation.

Each mentor will be assigned a small group of freshmen and they will be encouraged to connect with their protégés at least once a week. In addition, the school is working on plans for large-group events each month throughout the school year.