Spartan Messenger

January, 2008

Link Crew – Building a Bridge for Sophomores

On August 30, 2007, over 250 sophomores showed up at Skyline for the Link Crew Sophomore Orientation. There they were greeted by 90 energetic and knowledgeable seniors who were dedicated to helping the sophomores make the transition from PCFC to Skyline. These seniors, called “Link Leaders”, are part of Link Crew – a student-led organization in which the upperclassmen act as mentors to the incoming class.

Many studies have shown that the most difficult transition for students is from middle school (or in this case the ninth grade campus) to high school. Link Crew, which began at Skyline in 2001, is dedicated to helping make that transition easier. Each year, approximately 90 seniors are chosen to act as the Link Leaders. They attend a two day retreat during the summer in which they participate in activities and training to help them prepare for the role of a Link Leader.

This role begins with the Sophomore Orientation and continues throughout the year with events such as the Sophomore Tailgate Party before the first football game, a Halloween costume contest, and goody bags for semester finals. In addition to planned events, the Link Leaders are available to their “crew members” throughout the year to provide advice or assistance in adjusting to high school life.

Link Crew will be accepting applications for next year’s Link Leaders beginning in April. For more information about Link Crew contact Rob Rosemont at rosemontr@issaquah.wednet.edu or Gretel von Bargen at vonbargeng@issaquah.wednet.edu.