This article was written by ARTiculate Journalists 4-H Club member Olivia Nyboer, fifth grade student at Sault Area Middle School. Nyboer was assisted by club leader – Soo Leader reporter Sara Eisinger.
A group of fifth grade students at Sault Area Middle School help their classmates complete assignments in a program known as LINKS. But what is LINKS?
It is a program that allows general education students to link up with peers in need of extra academic support.
"LINKS means having an overall better school, where students care for and help each other," said Ashlyn Umbarger, resource room teacher. "It is what made me want to become a teacher. We rely on peer-to-peer support."
Student Matthew Nichols is a prime example of what being a mentor and friend looks like. He answered some questions in this short Q&A.
Q: What do you do as a LINKS member?
A: I help students in need of help. I try to do my best. I try to get to know them, and help them with their assignments. I help students read and write. I just try to be a friend.
Q: What does LINKS mean to you?
A: I am really friendly. I like to help people. It is kind of my thing. I have an urge to complete stuff with them. I try to make sure they feel comfortable enough to talk to me as a friend.
Q: Why is LINKS important?
A: When I help someone it puts a smile on their face. It makes me smile because I like to help people.
Q: Do you think LINKS helps other students?
A: My student has made friends with me. We have a lot of fun. We just have a bond. I help him finish his work, and he helps me with stuff as well.
Q: Why is LINKS important to the school?
A: Helpers help.
Umbarger emphasized the importance of students acting as positive role models for their peers.
"I have seen, first-hand, the impact students can have on one another," Umbarger said. "Having a peer can help another student enjoy school more than they would otherwise. It gives them a sense of encouragement in a way that they are used to."
Sault Area High School Special Education Paraprofessional Jeanine LaCrosse helped start the LINKS program a few years back. Today, the high school helps a total of 47 students.
About Olivia Nyboer and the ARTiculate Journalists 4-H Club:
Olivia Nyboer is a fifth grade student at Sault Area Middle School. She is member of the ARTiculate Journalists 4-H Club, led by Soo Leader reporter Sara Eisinger.
The ARTiculate Journalists 4-H Club is designed to help middle school students explore and grow as writers. Young poets, fictional writers, etc. are welcome to join in on the fun.
Young journalists in training will interview classmates, teachers, administrators, and coaches to write articles. Students may choose to write about topics such as athletes, student achievements or class projects.
This club should not interfere with class time. Teachers will facilitate when and if journalistic activity occurs during the school day.
Club members meet every Tuesday in the Sault Area Middle School library at 3:15 p.m.
The ARTiculate Journalists 4-H Club will run from 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. every Tuesday throughout the duration of the school year.
Feel free to call 989-559-0193 or email [email protected] for more information
