Project Link-up
WHAT IS PROJECT LINK-UP?
Project Link-Up is a Parent Association program in which a Bolles boarding student is “linked up” with a local Bolles family. Our boarders come from many different parts of the United States, and as far away as Southeast Asia, with numerous countries in between. They are multi-cultural, multi-lingual, and multi-talented. They are typical teenagers with diverse interests and personalities. The one thing they have in common is their need for a “home away from home.”
WHY IS THE LINK-UP PROGRAM IMPORTANT?
The Link-Up program provides the student an opportunity to spend time away from the dorm in a family environment. It can be a big adjustment for these young boarders to be away from family. Support from a local family can be extremely helpful in the adjustment process.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS TO THE HOST FAMILIES?
The boarder population contributes greatly to the cultural diversity of Bolles. Project Link-up is a vital program that not only enriches the student’s life, but also the lives of the Link-Up family because they open themselves up to diverse cultural experiences. This experience is unlike any other that they will experience in high school. The friendships that are formed from these experiences can last a lifetime.
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“Being involved in the link-up program has added a whole new dimension to our Bolles experience. Through this program we have developed relationships with students and their families from around the world. It has been a rewarding and enriching experience for my family.” |
HOW MANY BOARDERS ARE THERE?
There are approximately 90 boarders. Most are in Upper School. The male boarders reside on the San Jose Campus; female boarders reside on the Bartram Campus.
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WHAT IS A LINK-UP FAMILY EXPECTED TO DO?
Link-Up families sign up to “adopt” a boarding student for the school year. They’re asked to contact their boarding student once a month. They may invite the boarding student for a meal with the family or a night out at a movie, recognize and celebrate his/her birthday, attend school events in which he/she participates (athletic event, concerts, recitals, etc.), provide snacks during exam week…the possibilities are endless!
HOW IS A FAMILY MATCHED WITH A BOARDING STUDENT?
The “link-ups” are quite successful with families and boarders who have a common interest. Ideally, they are matched with a family with whom he/she may already have a relationship with through an extracurricular activity such as athletics, fine arts, or clubs.