By VINCE REMBULAT

The Bulletin

Irene Munguia is in charge of Link Crew at Lathrop High.

For the past three years, she’s welcomed her fair share of newcomers to the school as part of the freshmen orientation process.

Link Crew is a high school transition program that welcomes freshmen while making them feel comfortable throughout that first year of their high school experience.

Most of the 398 ninth graders enrolled for this school year showed up Friday for the ice-breaking activities while becoming familiar with their new surroundings at the LHS gym.

They broke into smaller groups led by their Link Crew leaders, who are available as mentors to help guide the freshmen on what it takes to be successful in that transition to high school.

Junior James Galbadores and senior Alexis Dural were among the 54 to fill the role this year as student leaders in Munguia’s Link Crew class.

“We’re excited about meeting our group (of freshmen),” Galbadores said.

He and his fellow Link Crew leaders were on campus last week in preparation for this big day.

“There a lot that goes on behind the scenes,” Munguia said.

She reminded her leaders to be mindful of their time during their time of working with the newcomers in getting a better feel around LHS.

“We want them to know where they’re going so they won’t get lost on that first day of school,” said Munguia.

The first day of school for Manteca Unified is Thursday, Aug. 8.