Peer Helpers program kicks off at WES

“A student support program like none before” is how the new Peer Helper Program is described by Windham Elementary School Counselor Ashley Chappell and Daleville City Schools Mental Health Coordinator Allie Coleman.

“The program is new to WES,” said Chappell. “Students were first nominated by their teacher and then had to go through an application process. One student has been selected from each homeroom class in the second through fourth grades.”

Named Peer Helpers from the second grade are Razan Ibrahim, Chance Hollister, Carlea Cole and

Adlee Reynolds. Peer Helpers from the third grade are Alyssa Edgette, Abigail Edgette, Jionni Robles and Gabriella Parker. Peer Helpers from the fourth grade are Elias Gonzales, Retaj Ibrahim, Adalia Weitzell and Danielle Wierenga.

“We are excited to announce our school’s launch of the Peer Helpers Program which is a student prevention and support program like none before,” said Coleman. “This comes at a crucial time for the mental and physical health of our students because in addition to previously existing challenges, they now

have the added effects of social isolation, potential sickness, widespread death, parent job loss and strained academic performance. They are in need of support now more than ever.”

Coleman said the Peer Helpers Program uses both educators and students to build a positive school climate and culture through a multi-tiered prevention and support program designed to help students build

resiliency skills, increase awareness about at-risk behavior and to create a reliable support system.

“The first component of our program includes educator-led prevention lessons titled PATH—prevention and awareness for total health,” Coleman explained. “These lessons address many of our students’ most challenging issues, including the topics of abuse, bullying, substance abuse and suicide in grade-level specific curriculum.”

Coleman said that studies show that youth first seek out peers when they are struggling. “Layering the PATH prevention curriculum with students who are trained in communication and referral skills brings to life the second component of the program, the student Peer Helpers,” she explained. “Once trained, Peer Helpers can support other students as a tutor, mentor or confidant.

“We look forward to continuing the support of our students through the Peer Helpers Program,” said Coleman. “We realize that making their mental and physical health a priority will enhance their academic and personal success.

“Because student success is truly our most fundamental objective we will continue to make decisions to that end,” she added.