LAGUNA NIGUEL

Increasing after-school programs at middle schools is a top priority of the city’s Youth Task Force. Through a partnership with Capistrano Unified School District, the committee would expand programs at Niguel Hills and Aliso Viejo middle schools, which handle most of the city’s youth. Doubling the program at Niguel Hills would allow 140 students to be served four days a week instead of two. The program aims to provide students with a safe, comfortable place to get homework done or hang out with friends while waiting for parents to pick them up, said Councilwoman Linda Lindholm, who is a member of the committee.