Peer Assistance and Leadership Program
What is PALs?
Peer Assistance & Leadership Program (PALs):
an effective youth engagement program that provides comprehensive training for students to help develop positive, supportive, and helpful peer relationships in their schools.
PALS Mission Statement
Peer Assistance Leadership and Service (PALS) is committed to providing students with trained peer helpers who promote a positive, supportive and productive school experience for students throughout the district.
Eaton RESA, along with Gateway Community Services and Lansing School District, developed the PALs program in the 80s. Today there are 30 area middle and high schools that participate in the PALs program in Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, counties.
Research has shown that students can be very effective in helping their peers combat problems such as:
- violence and conflicts in schools
- substance misuse
- alienation and teen pregnancy
- truancy and drop out
Equipped with leadership skills, these young leaders are actively transforming their school's climate. The PALs program empowers them with essential life skills, including:
- Communication Skills: Building their listening and empathy skills to create strong peer relationships
- Self-Awareness and Group Dynamics: Understanding themselves and how to work effectively within diverse school groups.
- Effective Decision-Making and Problem-Solving: Developing the ability to guide peers in making positive choices
- Conflict Resolution: Learning to mediate and resolve disagreements constructively.
Get your new PALs ready to lead!
We offer PALs Basic Training every October right here at Eaton RESA. This training equips students with the skills they need to be effective, confident peer leaders.
Ready to bring the PALs program to your school or seeking help with your existing program? Reach out directly to Alyson McClintock for support!
