High school transition eased by annual camp

A large number of freshmen got their feet wet as they ventured into the new world of high school this week during Whitehouse High School's fish camp. With a sea-faring "Pirates of the Caribbean" theme, a treasure chest filled with prizes, activities and information was the catch of the day.

Students played games and went on a scavenger hunt to help them learn their way around the campus. With clues like "go to Mr. McMullen's abode" and "go to the hall where 'pi are square'" students located items on their list of treasures.

New students heard from Coach Terri Deike on making the most of your high school years. Deike was a teacher and coach at Whitehouse High School for 11 years before taking on the challenge as the first women's basketball coach at the University of Texas at Tyler.

Deike pushed home the importance of responsibility and respect for themselves and others.

After lunch the students rotated through mini-classes on dress-code, student organizations, respect, school song and pep rallies, and PDA (public display of affection).

Terri Deike offers incoming freshmen valuable advice during Whitehouse High School's fish camp last week.

Parents were invited to join their students at 2 p.m. for the finale of the day which includes great prizes.

Area businesses and organizations also got into the game helping the staff and students prepare for a great freshman year. Donors of food and prizes were Chic-Fil-A, Austin Bank, Conaway and Sons, East Texas Copy Systems, Brookshire's, Kelly Boyce of All State Insurance, Azalea Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and Whitehouse High School Student Council.