Herricks High School peer leaders partner with elementary schools to promote recess inclusivity and respect

In a collaborative effort to strengthen social-emotional learning and playground culture, Herricks High School and elementary school social workers partnered to launch a districtwide initiative focused on respect and sportsmanship. The program bridged the gap between age groups by enlisting high school peer leaders to mentor younger students at Center Street, Searingtown and Denton Avenue elementary schools.

Through a combination of classroom dialogue and active play, the initiative provided students with the tools to navigate social interactions with empathy and integrity. The program followed a structured model beginning with classroom dialogue, where peer leaders facilitated discussions on healthy communication and supportive play. This was followed by an integrated outdoor activity designed to put sportsmanship into practice in a real-world, high-energy environment. The sessions concluded with a reflection period, allowing elementary students to share their feelings and brainstorm ways to encourage inclusivity and mindfulness of others during daily recess.

By utilizing high school students as near-peer role models, the district aimed to make lessons on character and respect more relatable and impactful for the younger students. The effort highlights a commitment to turning unstructured time like recess into an opportunity for social growth and development of conflict resolution skills.

Seeing the high school leaders guide the younger students creates a unified culture of kindness that spans the entire Herricks community. The success of this collaboration underscores the district’s ongoing dedication to fostering a supportive environment where students of all ages feel empowered to advocate for one another.

 

Photo caption: Herricks High school peer leaders visit elementary students at Center Street, Denton Avenue and Searingtown to lead activities focused on sportsmanship, respect and inclusive play as part of a collaborative social-emotional learning initiative.

 

Photos #1-3 Center Street Elementary School

Photos #4-6 Denton Avenue Elementary School

Photos #7-9 Searingtown Elementary School

 

Photos courtesy of Herricks Public Schools