How Peer Group Connection Brings Students Together

Every year, ninth and twelfth-grade students are paired through Peer Group Connection (PGC), a program that empowers selected seniors to mentor freshmen and ease their transition into high school. Acting as both guides and friends, seniors help freshmen build meaningful connections through fun activities that promote teamwork, personal development, and essential life skills. These moments of connection and growth embody this year’s theme: Every Second Counts.

Maggie Moraes, one of the PGC advisors, reflected on the impact of the moments—both big and small—on freshmen. “It’s the little things, like asking about their day or showing that you care, that slowly build a sense of belonging. Freshmen start to see seniors not just as older students but as friends and allies. It helps them feel more secure and prepared to tackle challenges as they progress through high school. This is the magic of PGC!” 

Ninth-grader Bia M. shared how impactful PGC has been for her and her peers. “Every second in PGC matters because it helps freshmen bond, connect through shared experiences, and form new friendships. These moments strengthen relationships between ninth and twelfth graders, giving seniors the chance to share wisdom and advice while helping us navigate challenges. Over time, these connections grow into genuine friendships that support our mental well-being. These experiences also inspire freshmen to look forward to becoming seniors themselves, creating a sense of purpose and continuing the cycle of guidance and support that carries through their high school years."

PGC seniors like Elisa K. play a key role in creating a supportive environment where freshmen feel empowered and supported. According to her, “Every second is an opportunity to foster a sense of community and personal growth. The bonds we create—both as groups and individually—are shaped by our efforts as leaders to actively engage freshmen through different activities. The connections we build in the classroom extend beyond those four walls, multiplying in our daily interactions in the hallways. By sharing our own struggles and achievements, we help 'freshies' navigate their own paths through high school and work toward their personal goals. These connections and friendships are only possible when we build trust, companionship, and a sense of responsibility." Through this mentorship, seniors cultivate trust and accountability, ensuring that each moment contributes to lasting bonds and a deep sense of community.

By fostering the values of connection, perseverance, and teamwork, PGC ensures that its impact extends far beyond the freshman year, leaving a lasting legacy. By bridging the gap between grade levels, PGC transforms the way freshmen perceive upperclassmen, shifting them from distant figures to trusted mentors and friends. The supportive environment not only boosts confidence in ninth graders but also fosters their personal and academic growth.