When they first make it to high school, every Grayslake Central freshman shares the experience of having to meet teachers, navigating the school for the first time, and exploring the wide range of sports and clubs for the very first time. Grayslake Central’s annual Class of 2030 event provides incoming students with the opportunity to learn how the school operates, connect with new peers, and gain a clearer understanding of what to expect in high school. On Jan. 22, 2026, GCHS proudly welcomed future freshman students.

Eighth graders from Grayslake Middle School, Park Campus, Prairie Crossing Charter School, Woodland Middle School, and St. Gilbert Catholic School were able to meet their counselors in the Big Gym and check out the Fieldhouse for all the activities and clubs at GCHS.

A group of current eight graders, Colin Q., Zander Lingad, Ayson Tiojanco, Alex Saviano, and Adien Patel were asked what they were most nervous about for their freshmen year. Colin and Zander said, “The people, especially the older classmen.” Ayson, Alex, and Adien all said, “Failing classes and having overwhelming ones.” The group was interested in an array of different extracurriculars as they walked around. Many in the same group of eighth graders said InkBlots seemed very interesting. The group also said “I’ve been interested in boys volleyball for a while,” that “The Theater program” interested them, and “Cross Country and Boys Tennis.”

The Rambassador program at GCHS helped run the event this year. Yaileen Diaz-Gomez, a junior and Rambassador said “It’s a big role for us to help them around for next year. My job is to help set up everything, and help promote the booths.” This program also makes sure students know their way around the school before they arrive in September, by showing them different hallways, classrooms and places around the school.