The Peer to Peer programs throughout the state go by different names, but the common denominator is for all students to come together to promote belonging, independence and more opportunities for students with disabilities.
Through the Unity Crew, the district’s Peer to Peer program, at Woodhaven High School, which students obtain class credit for, students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and similar educational disabilities are paired with student peers to learn and model appropriate social skills and academic behavior skills. The peer does the role modeling and the student learns from them.
Katherine Silcox, school social worker at WHS, says the program lends itself to natural opportunities for intentional connection between students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to meet or engage with each other on a typical school day.
“Peer education gives students knowledge and skills that demystify disabilities and increase understanding and acceptance,” Silcox said. “Although each Peer to Peer program is different, the results are the same: improved outcomes for students with disabilities, and a more positive, accepting school culture for all.”
Peers are with their students every day in core or elective classes and meet weekly on Mondays to go over the week’s curriculum. Then the curriculum is put into practice together during the school week.
Two of the foundations of the program are built on two solid topics: friendship and education.
The program focuses on friendships, which students may not normally form in a general education setting based on class schedules. The peers are friends, not authority figures to students, and are there to support their student partner. Additionally, the educational component helps all students recognize and know there are students different from them and know and break down the stigma of the disabilities, so everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
“These intentional connections increase understanding and improve outcomes for all students,” Silcox said.
Some of the most rewarding moments are watching students grow and mature, and gain knowledge about inclusivity and acceptance of others.
“Anytime you watch a student build that relationship they normally wouldn’t have the opportunity to build is incredible to watch,” Silcox said. “A lot of students with ASD have different schedules and school settings which often make it difficult for them to meet other students without the barriers. When everyone is educated and learns about inclusivity, it is easier to connect.”