Jesuit HS Welcomes Students Back

Carmichael's welcomed both new and returning students on Thursday for the first day of instruction of the 2011-12 school year.

About 1,060 students began classes at the all-boys college preparatory school. Following a minimum day, cars with parents picking up their sons backed up on Jacob Lane out to Fair Oaks Boulevard.

"The first day went well," said freshman Alex Aprea, who is running in cross country for Jesuit. "It's welcoming here. All of us freshmen are brand new and they make it easy to get used to."

Jesuit offers a Big Brother program, where seniors mentor a group of a few freshmen.

New to Jesuit this year is school president and , assistant principal for curriculum and assessment.

"(Suwalsky) is inspiring confidence in both students and adults," said principal Brianna Latko. "We're lucked and thrilled to have them here."

For seniors, the year ahead is a chance to enjoy the final year while making post-graduation plans.

"I'm just glad to be back," said senior Akachi Okugo, who plays basketball, sings in the school choir and is in the Black Student Union. "My goal is to get all A's and win state."