Ninth Grade
Program
Ninth graders have their own social events and grade-focused presentations, and live in dorms together. This academic and social support provides a strong foundation for success at Williston.
Overnight Orientation Trip
Bring your appetite for s’mores and prepare for some awesome bonding activities when the entire ninth grade departs for an overnight of outdoor fun!
Dorms Dedicated to Ninth Graders
First-years live together in the dorms because they share similar needs: the need to talk about their day, the need for study time before an exam, the need to make a big bowl of popcorn and watch Shrek with their friends.
Class Rep Leadership Opportunities
Opportunities for leadership positions abound in ninth grade. We’ve got a toolbox for you to use if you’re looking for a challenge outside the classroom.
Special Ninth Grade Curriculum
Ninth graders have their own version of a life and leadership curriculum that focuses on first-year success. Curiosity, Organization, Reflection, and Empathy are the guiding principles, which students are introduced to.
Social Events That Build Community
Orientation is just the beginning. Ninth graders also host a day-student-sleepover in the dorm, compete in an advisory dodge ball game, go head-to-head during trivia night, and have a T-shirt design contest social.
Matt Sawyer and Allison Marsland
Matt Sawyer and Allison Marsland co-coordinate the Ninth Grade Program. These longtime dormitory heads know what it takes to make students feel at home. A dorm parent since 1994, Matt lives in our brand-new freshman boys’ residence with his family. On any given evening, you’ll find him giving extra help, playing pool, and arguing with students about why Boston is the best sports city in America. Allison Marsland, dorm parent since 1992, lives in Wold House with her family and two lovable golden retrievers, Betty and Pepper. Her favorite activities: encouraging a spontaneous dance party, baking massive amounts of cupcakes for a dorm birthday, and putting together the ingredients for a mug night.
Wildcat Words
"No matter where I looked, there were classmates and teachers willing to help me out and thrilled to introduce me to their interests."
Caroline Borden '16
"At Williston, I was encouraged and mentored by my teachers, coaches, friends, teammates, and classmates."
Connor Murray '16
"Taking a leap to a boarding school community can be an intimidating one, but the tight knit community will help make the transition very smooth."
Leah Pezanowski '17
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