Last week, members our freshmen class spent time with groups of their peers playing games and participating in trust-building exercises. In place of traditional classroom learning, our students also got the opportunity to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities while building bonds and making connections with their classmates.
This experience is part of an annual two-day Freshmen Retreat developed by Link Crew, which is a high school transition program designed to help ninth graders feel comfortable and supported throughout their first year of high school. OSHS Link Crew trains students in grades 10 through 12 to serve as leaders and mentors for incoming freshmen with the guiding principle that students can help students succeed.
On Tuesday, September 15, Camp Hazen staff joined Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services, OSHS teachers, and Link Crew Leaders for a morning of games and problem-solving activities. Freshmen worked in small, medium and large groups, building familiarity with classmates and practicing trust and communication.
The retreat continued Friday with a full day at Camp Hazen YMCA in Chester. Activities included canoeing, archery and the Alpine Tower, where students had an opportunity to challenge themselves by climbing toward the top.
With support from Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services and Camp Hazen, the retreat was offered to all freshmen. Together, the activities and peer mentorship are intended to help the class build unity and become more familiar with high school culture and expectations. Link Crew’s support continues through students’ first year at OSHS.
