New Student Orientation

New Student Orientation is designed for all incoming Grade 9 students and transfer students. Attendance is strongly encouraged to help students feel prepared, connected, and confident as they begin the new school year.

While attendance is not required, new students are strongly encouraged to attend. New Student Orientation is a valuable opportunity for students to build connections before the first day of school, deepen understanding about school expectations, and learn about navigating and engaging in student life at ETHS.

Yes. Pickup Days and Orientation are separate events that serve different purposes. Pickup Days focus on completing important back-to-school tasks, such as receiving Chromebooks and taking your Student ID photo, while Orientation focuses on helping students build connections and prepare for the first day of school.

If a student is unable to attend Pickup Days, a parent/guardian may attend Pickup Days on their behalf to pick up the student's Chromebook and other materials. If this is not possible, students and families will receive additional instructions for picking up their materials at a later date.

If a student is unable to attend New Student Orientation, there is no need to report an absence. There is no make-up session for New Student Orientation; however, students will receive any important information before the start of the school year.

No. New Student Orientation is designed for students only. Families are invited to attend a separate Parent/Guardian Orientation session held in the evening.

Yes. New Student Orientation is strongly encouraged for all incoming students, including those who attended Prep to ETHS. Orientation is a distinct experience designed to help students connect with peers, meet staff, and prepare for the start of the school year.

ETHS is offering optional campus tours during Back-to-School Pickup Days for new students who did not attend Prep to ETHS. Sign up using our New Student Registration Form.

Students do not need to bring anything to Orientation. There will not be storage available for personal belongings, so students are encouraged to arrive with only what they can comfortably carry (e.g. small purse, water bottle).

Students should wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as they will be walking around the building and participating in activities throughout the day.

Lunch will be provided for all students during New Student Orientation. A variety of options will be available to accommodate different dietary needs and preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options.

No. Information about schedules and how to access them online will be shared prior to the start of the school year. 

No. There is no make-up date for New Student Orientation, as the experience is designed to be a unique opportunity for connection and engagement.

Students who are unable to attend will still receive key information prior to the start of school and will participate in a grade-level welcome assembly during the first week of school.

Students will receive their Chromebooks during Back-to-School Pickup Days. Please note that New Student Enrollment must be complete in order to receive a device.

Students can purchase a CTA bus pass during Back-to-School Pickup Days for $2. Please note: Cards are not automatically activated at the time of purchase. Activation is handled by the CTA and may take 7–10 days.