Blount County Schools has adopted a new school-based mental health model, Peer Helpers Plus.
Peer Helpers is a multi-tiered prevention and support program comprised of 2 major components. The first component is P.A.T.H. (Prevention & Awareness for Total Health), a curriculum created for students focused on major issues such as abuse, bullying, substance use, and suicide. All lessons are grade level specific insuring that students are being taught in an age appropriate way, focused on their needs and understanding. The second component focuses on peer to peer relationships. Students will be selected through an application process to be trained in communication and referral skills to become Peer Helpers! Peer Helpers are trained in 5 Core Skills and must adhere to the program’s Code of Ethics. Once selected and trained, Peer Helpers support other students as a tutor, mentor, or confidant.
Blount County and Southeastern are excited about this new program and the opportunity it brings to our students.