Through an integrated approach that combines the school’s Peer Assistance and Leadership (PAL) program with its after-school Junior Coaches program, fifth- and sixth-grade students at Wilson Elementary are improving communication skills, solving problems, supporting younger students, and taking pride in their school community.

Students interested in PAL or Junior Coaches complete an application and interview process before committing to the program’s responsibilities. Participants meet weekly to plan campus activities and for leadership-development lessons focused on communication, empathy, character, and teamwork. 

The PAL program is led by Community Schools Administrative Intern Shannon Cheatley, who says the lessons help Wilson students strengthen relationships and better understand one another. “We’ve seen a great deal of growth in our students and an increased sense of belonging,” Ms. Cheatley said. “Students are modeling the same behaviors they see in the adults on campus, like greeting students daily and encouraging students to follow schoolwide expectations.”

Participation in PAL and Junior Coaches helps students build confidence and become more comfortable connecting with others. “We’re learning to trust others and show them they can trust us,” said fifth-grader Mateo Gomez Romero. 

Students take on leadership roles across campus, including peer mediation, mentoring younger students, leading activities, assisting with snacks, and tending the school garden. Junior Coaches also visit classrooms twice a week to read stories tied to the schoolwide character trait of the month and lead related activities.

For sixth-grader Azeneth Gutierrez, serving as a Junior Coach has helped her grow as a leader. “I like that the younger students look up to us as role models,” she said. “The experiences I’ve had as a Junior Coach have helped me become a better leader and have made me more responsible.”

Fellow sixth-grader Stephanie Huipe Zalpa agreed. “When we’re in the classrooms helping with the little kids, we get to know them really well, and we tell them when they’re doing a good job,” she said. “I feel like I’m really helping out my school.”

Principal Brittney Figueroa said these opportunities at Wilson help her students discover strengths they may not have realized they had. “We give them the space to be who they are, and they’re encouraged to stretch themselves,” Ms. Figueroa said. “They take pride in being role models, and that really shows.”

Parents are noticing the impact as well. After fifth-grader Bianca Alvarez volunteered to serve as the on-camera announcer in a school video, her mother shared that she had seen a boost in Bianca’s confidence. 

As Wilson Elementary continues expanding opportunities for students, school leaders say the goal remains the same: building a campus where every student feels connected and valued.