In a continued effort to foster student wellness and leadership, St. Margaret’s Peer Counseling program kicked off the school year with a two-day youth leadership training for its student counselors.

The program is a pillar of St. Margaret’s student wellness initiatives, which is designed to promote health, well-being, and safety through peer education. Older students are carefully selected through an application process and undergo specialized training to become active listeners and trusted support for their fellow students.

The Peer Counselors began the new school year by welcoming incoming grade 9 students during Upper School orientation and supporting grade 6 students, as well as new grade 7 and 8 students, during Middle School orientation.

Throughout the school year, each Peer Counselor will be paired with an Early or Lower School classroom. According to Director of Counseling Dr. Maryam Kia-Keating, the placements are designed to help students build meaningful relationships and provide guidance and support to younger Tartans.

Upper School Peer Counselors will also participate in grade 9 advisory, where they will help new Upper School students navigate the transition to high school while encouraging a balance of focus and fun.

In Middle School, Peer Counselors will lead social-emotional learning lessons for their peers, giving them an opportunity to develop leadership skills while contributing to a supportive school community.

Additional training is planned throughout the year with community partners, including Laura’s House. The sessions will provide Peer Counselors with additional tools and knowledge to support their peers and younger students.

With a new year of leadership, service and connection underway, the Peer Counseling program is poised for an impactful year.