Philip’s Academy Shared Vision for Social-Emotional Learning
Fueled by love, each young person of Philip’s Academy Charter School of Paterson will have the confidence, competence, compassion, and commitment to change the world not only through the knowledge and skills they gain in all of their academic areas, but through the emotional intelligence they are going to build. From when they enter, each young person will feel a sense of safety, love, and belonging through the interactions they have with others.
Our young people will learn that even though we may not always get it right the first time, we will always find a better way to create an environment where our highest potential is unleashed. That their spark of genius is not only when they get an A on a test, but when they treat themselves and others with compassion and respect–that is when we will know that our results mattered.
Peer Group Connection-Middle Program Overview
As we strive to achieve our Philip’s Shared Social Emotional Vision, we empower students to become Peer Group Connection-Middle Peer Leaders, an evidence-based program developed by The Center for Supportive Schools that aligns to the CASEL Framework for Social Emotional Learning.
PGC-MS Peer Leaders work in pairs or trios as group facilitators and positive role models for their younger peers. Throughout the year, Peer Leaders lead activities and discussions with the same small group of 6th graders. The goal is to help 6th graders feel welcomed into middle school and to create a safe and supportive group where they can both have fun and discuss important topics.
PGC-MS Peer Leaders will:
Take a year-long leadership course
Lead activities and discussions with 6th graders (Called Outreaches)
Serve as positive role models throughout the school
Peer Leaders are trained in team building, group facilitation, problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills.
PGC-MS Peer Leaders are required to participate in a retreat, to attend all classes as scheduled, and to facilitate activities and discussions with 6th graders throughout the year.
Participation in PGC-MS requires a commitment of time, energy, dedication, responsibility and a desire to help and support others. Students who participate are role models in a position of leadership and develop a special bond with other students. Sixth graders look up to their Peer Leaders and are influenced by their behavior and attitudes.
