State Sen. Patty Ritchie discusses the Link Crew Program with Massena High Principal Patrick Farrand.

MASSENA -- Massena Central School is receiving $2,500 to expand the high school’s volunteer student mentoring program.

“The Massena Link Crew Program is allowing school officials to help children from Louisville and the greater Massena area make a more successful transition to high school,” said state Sen. Patty Ritchie (R-Heuvelton), who announced the funding

“By training juniors and seniors to be mentors and leaders, we are helping students to make a real difference in the lives of other young people,” Ritchie said.

Ritchie singled out Dr. Susanne Daye and the rest of the “Massena Matters” Committee “for their leadership in highlighting the challenges and opportunities facing Louisville and the greater Massena area.”

She also made note of the efforts of guidance counselor Erin Covell.

“I want to commend the administration, teachers and the rest of the Massena school family for their leadership in developing an innovative program to help our young people become more successful during their critical high school years,” said Senator Ritchie.

Ritchie’s 48th Senate District includes Massena and northwestern St. Lawrence County, and Jefferson and Oswego counties.