The Peer Assistance and Leadership (PAL) program was begun at Austin ISD in
1980
in an effort to implement this philosophy in Texas school districts. This
program
selects a cross section of students (including at-risk youth), trains them
in
communication skills and places them in peer-to-peer roles to help provide
positive school environments. PALs participates in Texas Education Agency
accredited, classroom-based curriculum and then utilizes their training to
help others in the school and the community as a whole.
P Today's educational philosophy has recognized the potential
of youth as a resource and
catalyst for change for other troubled youth. They provide a critical first
line
of defense in building resiliency among peers first to help solve their problems.
A The mission of PALs is to teach young people to lead
peers in building stronger communities.
L Skills taught include group dynamics, self esteem, social
skills, self awareness,
communications skills, decision making and problem solving, channels of referral,
drug education and cultural awareness.
PAL Students provide peer tutoring, participate in community
service projects, work with
students that have special needs and serve as mediators to resolve conflicts.
In
addition, PALs provide prevention and/or education services related to alcohol,
tobacco, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, suicide, teen pregnancy, sexual harassment,
and cultural diversity.