FAIRBANKS — The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is planning a new program, “Ignition,” for freshmen and new students to start the 2012-13 school year at area high schools.

Aug. 21 will be the first day of school for kindergarten through grade nine, as well as new students in grades 10 through 12. Aug. 22, will be the first day of school for returning students in grades 10 through 12.

Ignition is designed as “a transition program that helps students build relationships and make a positive shift to high school,” according to a district press release. On the first day, freshmen and new students will meet with mentors, attend group activities, tour buildings and familiarize themselves with class schedules.

More information about the various Ignition schedules and activities on the first day of school are available at respective high school websites.