The Helena Elementary School Peer Helpers recently wrapped up a very busy year.  Every first and second-grade class had an identified “peer helper” who participated in leadership training sessions, mixers with new students, partner classroom visits, and mentoring meetings with the Helena High School Peer Helpers.

They also shared concepts learned—such as active listening, problem-solving, and conflict resolution—through turnaround lessons with their classroom peers. Throughout the year, the students looked for ways to help others, such as with navigating friendships and resolving conflicts.

The HES Peer Helpers ended the year with two culminating activities. They planned and facilitated a service project, benefitting Two by Two Rescue of Helena. During the fundraiser, they collected almost $500 in donations from students participating in a pajama day at school.

The Peer Helpers ended the year with a graduation ceremony. During the ceremony, they were encouraged by HES administrators Mary Cooper and Kara Burleson, school resource officer Casey O’Farrell, and school counselors Maegan Vick and Shelly Johnson about the opportunity to be lifelong helpers in their school, home, and community.