Selvidge Middle School of the Rockwood School District geared up incoming 6th graders at their orientation day Aug. 2.

New students and parents had the chance to explore the school layout, figure out schedules and meet the principals as well as other students. 

But for some fresh 6th graders, the highlight was having their own locker.

"I'm excited about switching classes and having a new locker," said Justyne Mayer, who attended Ballwin Elementary, standing in front of her bedazzled locker digs.

Her must-haves? "Zebra print!" Mayer said, showing off matching zebra-patterned scissors and flash drives.

Another favorite thing about starting middle school: "I'm looking forward to lunch," said Thomas Miller, who was at the orientation with his grandfather of the same name.

"The girls, of course, want to be nice for their (yearbook) photo," said Grandpa Miller, adding Thomas's two sisters -- they're triplets -- were "orienting themselves" to the school.

"Boys, they don't care as much," Miller said.

Aside from the absence of recess and addition of new schedules, the about 250 incoming 6th grade class had the opportunity to explore the school with a group scavenger hunt.

Principal Sean Stryhal and Assistant Principal Kelly Mignerone welcomed the group in the gymnasium before grouping students from the three primary feeder elementary schools to hunt down the clues. Students from Ballwin, Ridge Meadows and Woerther Elementary schools will attend Selvidge, according to Rockwood's website.

Seventh and 8th grade students also had orientation times Thursday. Classes begin Aug. 14.

Visit Ballwin-Ellisville Patch's Facebook page for more photos.