Wantagh High School students came together to celebrate Mix It Up Day, a national initiative that encourages young people to step outside their comfort zones, meet new classmates, and build a more inclusive school community. Each year, the Peer Leaders vote on the theme, and this year’s winner was “Animal Habitats.”

During each lunch period, students were encouraged to sit with someone new, join activities that spark conversation, and participate in fun challenges designed to help them connect with peers they may not normally interact with. Laughter, conversations, and new friendships filled the cafeteria as students embraced the spirit of the day.

“Mix It Up Day is one of my favorite days of the year - setting aside an entire day to have our Peer Leaders connect and laugh with freshmen,” says Heather Naughton, Peer Leader Advisor. “This day helps our freshman become part of the Wantagh High School community which is really an amazing experience.”

Mix It Up Day began in 2001, launched by Teaching Tolerance (now known as Learning for Justice). The idea was simple but powerful: when students break out of their normal social circles—even for just one day—they help reduce bias, foster understanding, and strengthen the sense of belonging within their school.