Students head back to school, Link Crew Day at KDSS

It was a gloomy, rainy, cold day, as students returned to school Tuesday morning.

For elementary school students, it was back to the drill as they either walked to school and crossed the street safely with the help of a crossing guard, or rode the school buses to their destination.

Meanwhile, at Kincardine District Secondary School, it was Link Crew Day as the Grade 9 students were welcomed by Link Crew leaders and staff, with lots of great activities and fun.

Principal Mark Ozorio said this is the largest Grade 9 class in 10 years, with more than 120 students - larger than any other grade at the high school.

Those students were welcomed with a gauntlet of greeting, by Link Crew leaders and KDSS staff. Teacher Kathie Hackney then led them through several warm-up exercises, including stretching, back-rubs and "Simon Says," as well as some hugging and balloon-popping.

She said these fun activities are creating memories which is as important as learning at KDSS. "Have fun while you learn what you need to know to be successful."

Ozorio welcomed the students to KDSS. "This is a friendly school," he said. "We are proud of our academic achievement here, but we urge students to get involved in the clubs, sports and activities offered."

Vice-principal Lori Templeton, who has returned after a posting as principal in Chesley, said she is excited to be back at KDSS. "it is wonderful to be back. I urge you to get involved in activities during your years here, and create your own memories."

Hackney said there are three types of students: those who Make Things Happen; those who Watch Things Happen; and those who Wonder What Happened. "You want to make things happen and watch things happen."

Teacher Peter Wolfe then split the group into teams for more activities, including silently sorting the teams by height, and by birth date.

From there, the large group was divided into smaller groups to tour the school and learn their way around. After lunch, the students received their timetables and did a walk-through of their day, going from classroom to classroom, and meeting their teachers.