A Link Leader addresses new freshman at Fairview High School's Link Crew program August 11.

Link Leaders interact with new freshman at Independence High School's Link Crew program August 10.

      The comfy halls of middle school have given way to the sometimes intimidating halls of high school for thousands of Williamson County freshmen.  A new building, new teachers, and new classmates can often be overwhelming.  Studies show students who have a positive experience their first year in high school have a much greater chance at success.  That's where the Link Crew comes in.  Centennial, Fairview, Franklin, and Independence high schools are implementing the freshman transition program this year.

    Link Crew is built on the belief that students can help students succeed.  Juniors and seniors are trained as "Link Leaders" who serve as positive role models and help guide the first-year students through the beginning of their high school experience. 

     Link Crew starts with an orientation day designed to get the freshmen excited about being at their new school.  A large interactive group activity designed to break the ice starts out the day; then Link Leaders each take smaller groups so students can get to know each other better.  The small group sessions also spark discussion about high school challenges and responsibilities.   The orientation day concludes with an assembly that gives students a powerful message encouraging them to think about the choices they'll make during their high school years.  Link Crew doesn't end with orientation day.  The program continues throughout the year with social and academic follow up activities.

     "We are excited to implement this valuable program for freshmen this year," said Williamson County High Schools Director Jack West.  "The 'link' that is created with upperclassman volunteers is an important piece of making the freshmen feel at home and an immediate part of their new school."

     About 700,000 freshmen in the United States and Canada are participating in the Link Crew program this year.