WPHS students lead future Tigers and their families on tour of building

Families of eighth-grade students filled the halls of White Plains High School on Thursday evening as current Tigers led tours throughout the building to offer an inside look at what incoming freshmen can expect next fall.

Dozens of parents — and many eighth-graders themselves — were divided into groups, each guided by one or two student volunteers who answered questions, shared personal experiences and helped make the sprawling building feel welcoming.

“I volunteered after responding to an email,” said 11th-grader Celine Aucancela, who shepherded a group through the labyrinth. “I remember how big the school felt so it’s nice to help families before next year.”

For 12th-grader Michael Mark, the best part was highlighting opportunities that new students may not know about.

“They also teach (American Sign Language) here, which is really cool,” he told a group. “They have three different levels. You can start as a freshman in ASL 1 and eventually move into advanced classes. There’s also an ASL club — just like there are Spanish, French and Italian clubs connected to those classes. If your child loves what they’re learning, they can take it further.”

Mark also answered a parent’s question about the mysteries of the locker system.

“A week before school starts, students can check Infinite Campus to find their locker number. If it says something like A-132, that means it’s in A-building,” he said. “But honestly, not a lot of students use lockers anymore. Most just carry their backpacks. Still, it’s good to know where yours is.”

Following the tours, families gathered in the auditorium for a comprehensive presentation led by Principal Emerly Martinez and a team of teachers, counselors and administrators, including Assistant Principal Sara Hall, who spoke about counseling services.

The program introduced families to the school’s structure, academic pathways, support systems and the wide range of extracurricular offerings at WPHS.

Mr. Martinez emphasized the House Structure, a key feature of White Plains High School designed to help a large building feel more personalized and supportive. The school has three houses — North, South and East — each staffed by two house administrators, four school counselors and a dedicated social worker.

“Your child will be connected to a house administrator and a school counselor for all four years,” Mr. Martinez said. “Those are your point people, the constants, because teachers and classes change each year. We want every student to feel seen and supported from the moment they arrive.”

A house administrator expanded on the role they play.

“When your child arrives in September, there will be two people assigned to them who stay with them throughout all four years,” Mark Russo told the audience. “We’re part of your child’s team.

“School counselors help with scheduling, academics and college planning. House administrators get involved when a student needs support — whether they’re struggling socially, emotionally or academically,” he said. “You don’t need to wait for a problem to reach out. We’re here as a resource.”

Families were then introduced to the academic and enrichment opportunities awaiting future Tigers. Presenters highlighted:

• Comprehensive science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics pathways.

WPHS partners with BOCES for CTE programs, offers engineering, digital media, computer science, music technology, and expanding STEAM facilities — many soon housed in the Innovation Wing, which is under construction and expected to open in 2027.

• Award-winning arts programs

These include a full performing arts program, nationally recognized literary magazine, mariachi ensemble, jazz bands, photography and graphic design labs, ceramics and a growing dance program.

• A robust counseling and social-emotional support system

Each house includes a dedicated social worker, and the school’s SEL-focused Freshman Seminar Program ensures ninth-graders meet with their counselors twice a month.

• College, career and community engagement

Through its Youth Bureau partnership, summer jobs, internships and the senior internship program, WPHS connects students to hands-on learning beyond the classroom.

• “No Place for Hate” recognition

The school has been designated a “No Place for Hate” school for eight consecutive years, including several as a Gold Distinction school, one of only a handful statewide.

• Academic help centers and support spaces

These include the Math Lab, learning strategies classes, a peer-supported Student Center, and a “Calm Corner” for students who need a reset during the day.

• PTA leaders encourage community involvement

The WPHS PTA’s leaders emphasized the school’s strong parent community and the value of staying involved during the high school years.

“This is an incredible school,” PTA co-President Lynn Ryan said. “There is literally something here for everyone. And just like the kids, it’s important for parents to find their place too. Being involved helps you navigate everything that comes with high school—and it’s rewarding and fun.”

• The state-of-the-art Innovation One Building

Mr. Martinez shared an update on the construction of Innovation One, the school’s new I-Building, which will house art studios, ceramic and metalwork rooms, a dance studio, a photography and graphic design suite, a dedicated gallery space, and specialized life-skills rooms for students with disabilities.

The high-tech building will also expand CTE opportunities on campus and bring natural light and modernized learning spaces to the arts and STEAM programs.

Among the young visitors was Emily, an eighth-grader at a private school in Hartsdale whose mother works at WPHS.

“It’s a good tour!” she said excitedly. “It’s kind of scary because it’s a really big school, but it makes the school feel smaller now that I’ve been to a lot of the places. I have my older sister in tenth grade here, and my mom teaches here. The tour got me really excited for next year.”