During its ten-year history, the PAL (Peer Assistance and Leadership) program within the Austin ISD has evolved into a model peer helping program. Begun in 1980 on a pilot basis, it has grown into a districtwide program which each year touches the lives of hundreds of students from the high school throught the elementary level.

On these campuses, students have been carefully selected and trained to work as peer facilitators with yournger students both on their own campuses and at a feeder middle and elementary schools.

While participation in the program is open to anyone, particular efforts are made to target students exhibiting "at risk" characteristics as poor academic performance, behavior problems, involvement with drugs/alcohol, absenteeism, negative attitudes towards school, and low self-concept. Through the use of positive peer influence, the program attempts to steer younger students away from such counterproductinve behaviors and attitudes, and to assist them in having a more positive and productive school experience.

 
See Mrs. Bargsley in Room 228 for more information!
       
   

An opportunity for younger students to interact with older positive role models and to develop closeness and trusting interpersonal relationships.
A caring, sharing, listening experience for both giver and reciever.
A potential supplement to, or extension of regular school counseling services.
Something which can address academic as well as other concerns.
A means for students to develop a greater sense of ownership and responsibility in their school community.
A tool for orienting and preparing students for what lies ahead in school, particularly in the transition between levels in school.
An alternative way of reaching students and utilizing untapped student resources.
A program in which the students themselves play an integral role.
An opportunity to foster improved self image and more responsible decision-making among participants.
A stimulant to help students recognize and solve their own problems.
A chance to have a positive impact on the overall school climate.