Dr. Ufondu’s Back to School 2025 rundown: A Freshman Year to Remember
This year is a special one for our family.
Our 14-year-old son, Jackson Ufondu, is stepping into his freshman year at Mansfield Legacy High School. The dad in me feels a mix of excitement and nerves — high school is a whole new world — but both Nicole and I know we’ve prepared him well.
We’ve invested in his emotional well-being, self-awareness, and maturity, and we’re confident he will thrive academically, socially, and personally.
A Brother’s Wisdom
Jackson’s big brother, Neiko, also attended Mansfield Legacy before transferring to Summit High School. It wasn’t until after graduation that we learned Neiko had faced bullying during his high school years.
Neiko has turned that difficult chapter into a mission — sharing practical tips with Jackson to help him stand tall, stay safe, and navigate high school’s social pressures with strength and dignity.
5 Tips for Succeeding Your First Year of High School
1️⃣ Build Your Tribe – Surround yourself with friends who respect and uplift you.
2️⃣ Ask for Help Early – Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed; teachers and counselors are there for you.
3️⃣ Stay Organized – Keep track of assignments, deadlines, and commitments.
4️⃣ Get Involved – Join clubs, sports, or activities to find your place and your people.
5️⃣ Protect Your Peace – Avoid drama and know when to walk away.
Neiko’s Anti-Bullying Tips for Freshmen
💪 Project Confidence – Even if you’re nervous, walk tall and speak clearly.
🧠 Know Your Allies – Identify teachers, coaches, or staff you can trust.
🚫 Don’t Engage the Bully – Arguing back often fuels their behavior.
📣 Speak Up – Tell a trusted adult immediately if you feel unsafe.
🤝 Stick with Positive Friends – Isolation can make you an easier target.
Why This Matters at BroKin.org
At BroKin.org, we believe that success in school is about far more than grades. It’s about emotional resilience, safety, and self-worth — especially for kids of color who may face unique pressures and challenges in their school environment.
To all the freshman kids of color walking into high school this year:
You’ve got this.
To the parents:
We’ve got them.
💬 Parents & students — What’s your best tip for beating both the stress and the social challenges of high school?
#BackToSchool #KidsOfColor #FreshmanYear #HighSchoolSuccess #BlackMentalHealth #LatinoMentalHealth #BroKin #CulturallyCompetentCare #AntiBullying #DrIfeanyiUfondu #DFWBlackPsychologistForBoys
