As students return to the normal agenda of school after Christmas break, new faces arrive in the middle of the school year, many adjusting to a new environment after attending a public school.

Junior Tim Miller attended Yosemite High School before transferring to FC. After his parents wanted him to be in a Christian environment, he arrived and noticed many differences from his old school.

?The kids are really nice here,? Miller said. ?It’s a lot smaller but I like how it’s a Christian-based environment.?

Although the first day at a new school can be stressful, Miller finds other activities to do in order to break away from a demanding school day. After school, Miller plays the outfield in baseball, and during his free time he snowboards and rides his dirt bike.

Along with Miller, junior Tylar Pattie came to FC from Clovis High School because of her parents’ decision; her mother had attended FC. Despite the significant difference in enrollment, Pattie claims to have adjusted to her new surroundings.

?I like this school; it is really different,? Pattie said. ?It is a lot smaller and way more laid-back.?

In contrast to Miller and Pattie, who were encouraged to transfer by their parents, new sophomore Bridget Teixeira made her own decision to attend school on-campus after leaving her old school, San Joaquin Memorial.

“I really like going to a private school and I wanted to go to another with the same beliefs that I have,” Teixeira said. “There is not much of a difference between my old school and here ? they are both small schools. But I really like the school so far: the students and teachers are nice, and I also like the basketball program.”

Pattie also shares an interest in the sports programs, and has already made friends based on her choice.

“I enjoy cheer and I am planning on trying out here next year,” Pattie said. “I also enjoy hanging out with all my friends from my old school and my new friends outside of school.”

For more information on new people on campus, read the Dec. 18 article, New teachers acculturate, establish routine.