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Incoming Waco High School freshmen enjoyed a cheerful reception as they attended the first Fish Camp at the new campus. Students participated in icebreaker activities, and they were paired into “Link Groups” that they’ll have for the school year with classmates. They also got to have their questions answered about the high school experience.

Incoming freshmen gather in the new Waco High School cafeteria for icebreaker activities during orientation, known as Fish Camp, on July 29, 2025, in Waco. Credit: Justin Hamel / The Waco Bridge / CatchLight Local / Report for America
Two groups of students compete in a race to pop all their balloons between each other’s backs as an icebreaker activity during Fish Camp. Credit: Justin Hamel / The Waco Bridge / CatchLight Local / Report for America
Incoming freshmen Navaye and Shelsea pose for a portrait while waiting to start their Link Crew breakout session during Fish Camp. Link Crew is a group of students with who will have activities during the year and where student members can guidance throughout the school year. Credit: Justin Hamel / The Waco Bridge / CatchLight Local / Report for America
Coach Savannah Shavers (center) answers questions about the high school experience with her Link Crew during Fish Camp. Credit: Justin Hamel / The Waco Bridge /
From left: Junior Tyler Hansen, junior Ky’eria Coleman, sophomore Khloey Stoltmann, and freshman Khyndel Cain pose for a portrait in Lions Way, the main hallway of the new Waco High School on July 29, 2025. Credit: Justin Hamel / The Waco Bridge /
Incoming freshmen enter the new Waco High School through a line of cheerleaders and a drumline at Fish Camp. Credit: Justin Hamel / The Waco Bridge / CatchLight Local / Report for America

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Justin Hamel is a visual journalist for the Bridge through a partnership with Catchlight and Report for America. He’s excited to help shape the Bridge’s visual journalism by ensuring every story includes...