Another Group of P.E.E.R. Pals Trained and Ready to Support Their School Community
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Another group of P.E.E.R. Pals are being trained and ready to hit the playgrounds at recess. The students photographed were in grades 5 and 6 from Pope John Paul II school who applied to be P.E.E.R. Pals for their school. A similar training was provided to the students at St. Louis school in October.
P.E.E.R. Pals involves students, in grades 5 and 6, who receive special training and support through the program to facilitate structured activities and games during recess for primary students. The students learn organizational skills, leadership skills, problem solving, team building and an appreciation for diversity. These school leaders provide opportunities to create connections with other kids and have fun in a natural setting. Students who are trained as P.E.E.R. Pals commit to their role for the school year and receive ongoing training and support.
Sarah Pyzer, Applied Behavioral Analysis Lead for the board talks about why the program is important: "Within our inclusive school board, some of our students may, from time to time, struggle with successfully navigating peer interactions and social situations. Our P.E.E.R. Pals program provides valuable training and tools for students so they have the skills to successfully engage with their peers in a structured and supportive environment."
P.E.E.R. Pals is a school-wide, peer-mediated social skills program designed specifically for use within elementary schools. It was created by the Thames Valley Children's Centre. P.E.E.R stands for Peers Establishing Effective Relationships. The program is intended to:
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Enhance social communication skills
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Promote a strength-based perspective in both attitudes and behaviors
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Encourage a culture within the school environment that promotes social behavior
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Enhances students' leadership and problem-solving skills
This is Pope John Paul II school's second year running the program and St. Louis School's first.
The P.E.E.R. Pals are supported at their school by staff volunteers. Mrs. Chisholm and Mrs. Derouard are the volunteers at Pope John Paul II School and Ms. Buffet is the volunteer from St. Louis School.