As another Spring season approaches, so does the end of a school year and the exciting beginning of a new one. This fall, Pekin Community High School (PCHS) will welcome the Class of 2030. PCHS is a high school district that welcomes students from eight different school buildings across the community. Although the Class of 2030 will not start their official journey as  Pekin Dragons until August of 2026, the transition to high school begins months earlier with tours of the building, getting to know school staff, course selection, school registration, and other events to prepare students for the start of their high school career. 

As we prepare to welcome our Freshmen for the 2026-2027 school year, here are some important events that will help prepare them and their families:

CTE Tours 
In January, students visited PCHS during the school day and explored Career and Technical Education (CTE) course offerings. With over 75 CTE course offerings, students were able to see current PCHS students and teachers in action in classrooms and workshops, and ask staff questions about the programs and pathways available to them. 

Freshmen Kickoff Night 
On February 5th, students and families are invited to tour PCHS and meet staff members, including Deans, Counselors, and Student Support Services. During the tour, students and families can see our A-G buildings, ask questions, and become more comfortable with navigating the campus (wear comfy shoes, as there is a lot of walking!). Sessions will be offered at 4pm and 5:30pm and begin in the cafeteria. Students and families may enter at the canopy entrance at the top of the hill. 

Freshmen Orientation 
Families will receive information about registration, PCHS policies, and students will have an opportunity to meet their future classmates. There is a lot of important information shared at these events, which will help with the registration process, including registration documents, medical and dental compliance standards, and other information pertaining to registering and entering a new school district. The orientation will be held in the theater on the following dates and times:  

May 19th 5:30pm – Edison, Good Shepherd, St. Joes, Parkview, Rankin

May 20th 5:30pm – Broadmoor, South Pekin, GMS

With over 200 courses offered, including 75 CTE classes and 25 AP/Dual Credit courses, 50+ clubs and organizations, and 250 faculty and staff, PCHS is excited to welcome our Freshmen Class of 2030 into the building. As the PCHS motto goes, “The Opportunity is Here, The Fire is Within”!