Link Crew

HAGERSTOWN -- It used to be the "big green giant. " That was Joseph Bender's nickname for South Hagerstown High School when he arrive as a freshman. Now a 17-year-old senior, Joseph still calls the school a "giant," but is hoping to help younger students transition from middle school into "big green. " He is one of many students in Washington County mentoring younger students in every middle and high school in the county. The program, Link Crew, is at county high schools, and is one of two similar initiatives to help younger students transition into their new schools, said Carol Costello, supervisor of alternative programs and student services.

12630 Broadfording Road Clear Spring Principal: Michael Shockey Phone: 301-766-8082 TDD: 301-842-0082 Web site: www.wcboe.k12.md.us/custom_pages/080/Main/index.htm Starting time: 8:45 a.m. Dismissal: 3:30 p.m. Grades: 9-12 Date of construction: 1974 Age of building: 33 years Latest renovation: 1998 Size of building: 101,662 square feet State-rated capacity: 584 Projected 2007-08 enrollment: 559 From the principal Q. What are your goals for the school year?

66 N. Main St. Smithsburg Principal: Melvin Whitfield Phone: 301-766-8337 Fax: 301-824-2617 Web site: www.wcboe.k12.md.us/custom_pages/370/Main2/index.html Start time: 8:45 a.m. Dismissal: 3:30 p.m. Grades: 9-12 Date of construction: 1965 Age of building: 42 years Latest renovation: 1994 Size of building: 116,260 square feet State-rated capacity: 871 Projected 2007-08 enrollment: 899 From the principal Q. What are your goals for the school year?

1200 Pennsylvania Ave. Hagerstown Principal: Valerie Novak Phone: 301-766-8238 Fax: 301-733-3158 Web site: www.wcboe.k12.md.us/custom_pages/260/Main/index.html Start time: 8:45 a.m. Dismissal: 3:30 p.m. Grades: 9-12 Date of construction: 1956 Age of building: 51 years Latest renovation: 1992 Size of building: 168,750 square feet State-rated capacity: 1,336 Projected 2007-08 enrollment: 1,306 From the principal Q. What are your goals for the school year?