Published: September 02, 2008 09:04 pm            

Terre Haute South linking lives forever

TERRE HAUTE — Clap once, clap twice, give a backrub, and shake a leg. Yes, it is possible that some of you have no clue what we’re talking about. That’s because in the Link World and in everyday life, there are people who make things happen, people who watch things happen, and people who have things happen to them. That is a motto taught by Terre Haute South Vigo High School’s own Link Crew.

If you missed out on Link’s Aug. 14 freshman orientation, then you missed out on a learning experience that couldn’t be taught anywhere else.

Some of you may ask, “What exactly is this super group we’ve heard of called Link Crew?”

It’s a crew made up of juniors and seniors with different backgrounds who all possess leadership qualities to help provide freshmen with a smooth transition from middle school to high school. They are designed to help freshmen get accustomed to a new environment not only before school starts but also year round.

When the freshmen walked into South’s gym doors for the very first time during the orientation, it wasn’t a secret that many, if not all, of them were a little apprehensive. However, once they realized that others were in their same position and they saw how excited the upbeat Link Leaders were, they felt more at ease and were ready to start their exciting high school adventures. The day started out with some loud music and a gauntlet full of people greeting freshmen for the first time.

The crowd was pumped and ready to go after Mr. Marcus Songer led them with many unusual activities. These activities were designed to bring everyone together and let people open up and learn things about their soon-to-be fellow classmates.

Next, it was time to break off into groups. Link Leaders each had a group of about 10 students. There, they participated in many activities to get to learn more about themselves and each other. Although some of the activities were a challenge, the ending reward was great because it felt nice that all it took was some teamwork to successfully complete them.

The freshmen also got a four-star tour of the school. Each group picked a theme to rock out to and dress up in. Pirates and clowns littered the school making it an enjoyable experience for all. Everyone left knowing that they had the school community on their side.

However, if you did happen to miss the freshmen orientation, don’t be totally bummed out. South’s dynamic Link Crew is not just a summer activity. They are very excited to be hosts of many socials this year.

They have an amazing plan to keep the freshmen on the ball throughout the year.

And to the freshmen, Link Leaders want you to remember that they’re always there throughout the year. The special bonds made on that beautiful August morning did not end when you stepped through the doors on your first day of high school. That first day, all it took was a spotting of a red shirt just to ask a question. Anytime you need an ally or someone just to talk to, your Link Leader will be on their toes, willing and ready to spring into action.

The “Crew” also would like to give a special congratulations to Mr. Ross Martin on his new principal position at Sullivan elementary. Although it’s obvious that we will all miss him, everything he brought to Link Crew is still in play. We all wish him the best of luck.

There could be no Link Crew without the dedication and help from the other amazing Link coordinators. They also are there throughout the year to provide any assistance to all. Those coordinators include Mr. Marcus Songer, Ms. Gina Minar, Mr. Brian Mancuso, Mr. Josh Speer, Mr. Ed Jarvis, Mr. Dave Lisman, Mrs. Fern Cawley, Mrs. Annette Miles, Mrs. Elizabeth Garland, Mr. John Stephens and Mrs. Alexis Darrus.

So for all of you still singing, “Qwadalliacha, Qwadalliacha, doo-da-lee-do, doo-da-lee-do,” don’t worry. We’re all with you. Link is an amazing Crew that can change your life forever. Make sure not to miss the opportunities that it will offer the rest of the school year.

        

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