Incoming freshmen will get a dose of what to expect as they transition into high school.

Many will be helped out thanks to Link Crew, which is an international program that relies on select upperclassmen – they’ve gone through extensive training – serving as role models to the newcomers.

Together, they’ll engage in ice-breaking activities along with the grand tour of the school.

First up is Sierra High, which will kick off the Link Crew experience starting at 8:30 a.m. today in the large gym. The new students and their leaders will later break into smaller groups, in part, to discuss the upcoming school year.

Lathrop High freshmen are also scheduled to convene that morning beginning at 10 o’clock.

On Friday, Manteca High will have freshmen orientation at Winter Gymnasium starting at 7:30 a.m.

East Union’s introductory event for ninth-grade students is planned for 8 to 10 a.m. while Weston Ranch High, as part of their Cougar Convention, will gather up the freshmen in the large gym beginning at 11:15.

The first day of school is Aug. 10.

By then, all students will be required under a new state law to provide proof of vaccination for whooping cough – or Tdap (Tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis) boosters – at or prior to that first day.

Immunization became necessary after whooping cough became widespread a year ago.

At Ripon High, freshmen orientation is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 9, beginning at 10:30 a.m. in the North Gym.