Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) has introduced a program designed to help incoming freshmen transition smoothly into high school by pairing them with trained upperclassmen mentors. The program, which initially targeted fifth graders transitioning to middle school, has now been expanded to include freshmen.

Program Details

The program, known as the ‘Link Crew,’ pairs trained upperclassmen with groups of 10 to 12 freshmen to serve as mentors. These mentors personally invite the freshmen to the district’s Jump Start event, which aims to make them feel welcome and supported as they prepare for the significant change from middle school to high school.

According to Kenneth Salazar, associate superintendent of leadership and learning for APS, the fifth-grade program showed significant success in fostering better collaboration and relationships among students. ‘Even the teachers saw a difference in how the kids were more able to work together with each other because they’ve had this opportunity to jumpstart and get ready for school in a more organized, intentional way,’ Salazar said.

APS expects the program to foster better attendance, stronger friendships, and increased collaboration among students. By providing a supportive environment, the program aims to help freshmen navigate the challenges of high school and set them up for success.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.