Sherman ISD Introduces New Peer Helpers Program

Young people are often more willing to talk to peers about personal issues than school counselors or other adults. The new Peer Helpers program at Sherman ISD hopes to leverage that reality to get students the support they need.

“Peer Helpers are trained to listen and to be supportive to students who might be struggling,” said Aileen Hays, SISD coordinator of counseling and student support. “They also know when a problem is too large and should be handled by an adult.”

Peer Helpers is a robust, nationwide peer-to-peer support program that is broad in scope. It provides curriculum and training for Peer Helpers as well as complementary lessons for all students on topics such as suicide prevention, bullying prevention, substance abuse prevention and character education. 

“We’ve had Hope Squad for the past four years, and Squad members have referred other students to counselors in that time,” Hays said. “We hope to build on the success of Hope Squad to build a kinder climate and more awareness in our schools around issues like bullying, substance abuse and suicide.”

Sherman ISD students in grades 4-12 are eligible to become Peer Helpers. Students are nominated by teachers and selected by counselors for demonstrating compassion and strong listening skills. 

Sherman ISD Peer Helpers from Piner Middle School, Sherman Middle School, Sherman High School and Jefferson Learning recently attended training at Austin College to become mentors, mediators and advocates for other students. Elementary students will be trained in the coming weeks.

“We’re training these students on what to do when they hear things that are concerning,” said Stephanie Keeler, student support counselor at Piner. “They can get those students support on our campuses.”

Peer Helpers are also encouraged to assist students who are new to the district and may be struggling to connect.

“New students can feel like they’re just thrown into the middle of things,” said Amy Milner, student support counselor at SHS. “They may not get the resources that they need that the school has to offer.”

When a situation arises that requires intervention, Peer Helpers are trained to refer a student to a counselor. Counselors then work with the student and their family to provide support and make outside referrals as appropriate. 

“Peer Helpers are equipped with the knowledge of what to do when they see students facing challenges,” Hays said. “They are not trained to be counselors. They are trained to be good friends and kind and helpful peers.”

Through Peer Helpers, Sherman ISD is reinforcing a positive climate in all schools.

“This program will be a lot more far-reaching,” SMS student support counselor Brittni Stevens said. “There are a lot more ways for our Peer Helpers to get involved and help their fellow peers connect to the resources and services the school can offer.”