It’s well known that 9th grade can be treacherous. That first year of high school is a challenge for lots of kids for lots of reasons. Schools are always looking for ways to ensure the success of the freshman cohort. So I want to pass along what I learned about a program called Link Crew. I first read about this in Education Week (November 1 issue) and then looked up the website: http://www.boomerangproject.com/link/what-link-crew.
The idea behind Link Crew is to match each 9th grader with a successful junior or senior. The program provides training for the older kids, with specific tools they can use to engage, encourage and support the new kid. Rather than a one-day orientation to high school, Link Crew involves a full year of support and engagement.
Sounds like a good idea to me. I noticed that 25 school districts in Texas are using this program. Check it out!
DAWG BONE: SUCCESS IN 9TH GRADE USUALLY LEADS TO SUCCESS ALL THE WAY TO GRADUATION.
Tomorrow: decapitation of a lizard….