Charles D. Owen High School’s Link Crew laid out the welcome mat for incoming freshmen during a special orientation on Friday.
Upperclassmen led the new warhorses through introductions, team building exercises, and colorful tours of the school. Now in its third year, Link Crew helps freshmen get ready for high school by plugging them into the school’s culture and connecting them with peer mentors.
“We are building connections through all of those different activities that we've done,” said Link Crew advisor Taylor Taylor. “We're talking about meeting challenges that high school is going to bring these ninth graders, and then the Link Crew leaders will be a constant connection for our freshmen throughout the school year. They will be texting and contacting their freshmen throughout the year, inviting them to athletic events and arts events for the school and keeping them connected, encouraging them to get involved, but also being an emotional support.”
Link Crew members also benefit from the leadership and mentorship opportunities.
“I'm hoping that these freshmen feel comfortable enough to go to us if they have problems, if they have questions,” said Nick, a junior Link Crew member. “I think it's good for us because it just improves our leadership skills.”
“It's helped me grow by mixing with the freshmen, communicating with them, that’s helped me build my communication skills,” added Ashley, a senior Link Crew member. “We’re giving them a sense of community.”