At Greeley West High School, Link Crew continues to play a major role in helping freshmen adjust to the challenges of high school life, academically, socially, and personally. The program, led by Ms. Whitney Upshaw, connects incoming ninth graders with upperclassmen mentors who guide them through their first year, helping them find confidence and community at West.

Just this week, Link Crew held an all-freshmen assembly during Advisory.

“So the big thing we’ve been focused on this year is getting ninth graders more involved,” said Upshaw. “We’ve been doing activities at lunch, encouraging students to attend school events like football games and homecoming, and pairing them with Link Leaders who help them get connected and find their passion.”

Senior Link Crew leader Kaitlee Marshall said the most rewarding part of the program is watching freshmen grow. “I help them with tutoring, social stuff, and just being there when they need someone to talk to, “ she said. “Their accomplishments kind of become your own. It’s exciting to see them succeed.”

That support has made a real difference. This month’s Freshman of the Month nominee, Alezandra Martinez, says she’s proud of how far she’s come. “I was surprised, but really grateful,” she said. “I’ve been passing all my classes and getting into new things like volleyball.”

Upshaw hopes the program continues to grow both in academic support and student recognition. “There are so many students doing amazing things, even if they’re not earning straight As,” she said. “We want to honor their effort and the fact that they’re showing up and putting in their all.”

At Greeley West, Link Crew is more than just a mentorship program, it’s a reminder that every Spartan deserves to feel connected, supported, and celebrated.