“I wish I had a peer leader when I was a freshman, our grade missed out,” said senior Joanna Eliasof, about her thoughts on peer leadership.

Peer leaders are a group of upperclassmen whose overall goal is to help freshman students feel comfortable in the school, listen to any problems they are having and be there as a role model and a friend.

The current peer leadership group includes seniors Shannon Garner, Joanna Eliasof, Maggie Dougherty, Kristina Distaso, Will Pearl, Nick Hennig, Caroline Mols, Katie Egan, Erin Mortara and juniors Gabi Latimer, Troy Locatell, Lia Newkirk, Jackie Noyes, Lynn Keating, and Tina Flores. These students had to apply through written application as well as submit a video of why they thought they should be picked as a peer leader. They are required to attend weekly meetings as well as meet with their freshman students on a regular basis.

Throughout the years, peer leadership has developed and changed very much. Three years ago, peer leadership was nonexistent. Two years ago, peer leadership was a class that met once in a while which freshmen were required to attend. Last year, Peer Leaders met in Freshman Seminar classes.

“My peer leaders only came once,” said sophomore Caitlin Barnes about her peer leadership experience.

This year, the group is going with a different approach. Peer leaders were required to take a study hall this year so they could meet with their assigned students during their freshman seminar class. The peer leaders and the freshman seminar teacher set aside dates for the peer leadership class to take place.

While in class, Peer Leaders will get to know their students through ice breakers and splitting into smaller groups. It is stressed that peer leaders are people who they can go to if they have any questions or need help. This group of juniors and seniors is also responsible for setting a positive example in the school.

“Our first meeting was a lot of fun! I’m excited to become friends with both our peer leaders and kids in my grade I normally don’t hang out with,” said freshman Kelly Clark about her first peer leader meeting. “It gives us a chance to learn more about the high school and get to know the kids in my grade a little better. I just wish we had the first meeting earlier!”

“I think this is going to be a successful year for the group” said senior Shannon Garner.