After a year without the program, Aliso Niguel High School’s beloved Link Crew is making its return.
However, next school year, it’s coming back with a twist: it will operate as a club rather than a class. Unfortunately, due to budget cuts, this shift from an official school class to a club represents a significant change, but it still promises to foster Aliso’s community and ease the transition for freshmen.
For years, Link Crew has been a cornerstone of Aliso Niguel’s welcoming culture. The purpose of the program is to help freshmen transition to high school and learn how to navigate through their new environment. Through the club, incoming freshmen will be paired with an upperclassman mentor they can turn to for guidance and support. Link Crew plans to continue hosting various events throughout the year, including freshman orientation, finals preparation, and course selection for the following year.
Link Crew offers numerous benefits for both its members and the students they assist. For example, club members can earn volunteer hours by helping freshmen adjust to high school life.
The club’s advisor, Mrs. Sepe, says, “If you give back to the school, then the freshmen, as they get older, will want to give back and will know that this is part of our culture and what we do here.”
A variety of students are already considering joining the club—not just for the volunteer hours, but to give back to the community. Students of all grade levels recognize the significant impact Link Crew has on the school’s culture. It’s important to recognize the uneasy transition from middle school to high school, which is why all freshmen deserve the best welcoming experience possible.
Reflecting on the program’s return, Paige Nakamura (10) says, “It’s nice to know that there are other students who want to help freshmen out … I remember how the upperclassmen during freshman orientation gave me a lot of advice for my first year, which made it feel less scary knowing someone had my back.”
In past years, Link Crew has eased much of the anxiety surrounding the first day of high school. Considering its history of success, it’s reasonable to anticipate continued achievements in the coming year. The club will ensure that all Aliso Niguel newcomers have the best possible first-day experience.
The importance of Link Crew cannot be overstated. Research shows that peer mentorship programs improve students’ academic performance, social skills, and overall well-being. By providing freshmen with role models and a support system, Link Crew helps create a positive school climate where every student feels valued and included. No students will feel left out under the guidance of Mrs. Sepe since students are paired into groups during orientation.
As Aliso Niguel continues to grow and evolve, the return of Link Crew reflects the school’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community. Students, staff, and parents alike are eager to see the positive changes this revitalized program will bring. Link Crew offers a place to connect, grow, and make a difference.
