Schools
Miller Place High School Students Learn How to Assist Peers in Need
High School Students Train to be 'Natural Helpers' During Intensive Retreat
More than 30 Miller Place High School students in grades 9—12 recently participated in an intensive day-long training to learn how to become “Natural Helpers.” Natural Helpers is a Miller Place School District initiative which provides students with the tools they need to recognize when a peer may be struggling and offer effective support. Participating students were nominated through an anonymous school-wide survey, in which students wrote names of two peers they are most comfortable speaking with about a challenge or concern in their life.
“Students confronted with personal concerns or issues in their lives frequently turn to a peer for help first,” said Dr. Marianne F. Cartisano, Superintendent of Miller Place School District. “The ‘Natural Helpers’ program recognizes the vital support students’ peers can provide and helps prepare Natural Helpers with the skills they need to support their peers.”
The training encompassed a number of team-building activities to learn how to break down barriers between students, confront labeling and stereotyping, and develop empathy for challenges others face. All participants were challenged to step outside their comfort zones to share their own stories and realize how each of their peers also has a personal challenge or obstacle they are trying to overcome. The Natural Helpers currently meets once every two weeks to discuss peer issues, the climate throughout the school, how they can best help and where to direct those struggling for additional assistance.
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“The Natural Helpers program brings students together to discuss critical issues they experience in their everyday lives,” said Miller Place High School social worker Lisa Aitken. “Not only did students feel more connected to one another, they also learned how to pay it forward and be the best resource possible for their peers.”
For more information regarding Miller Place Schools and district happenings please visit the district’s website: http://www.millerplace.k12.ny.us/
