The Peer Assistance and Leadership Program (P.A.L.) is a peer helping program in which select high school students in grades 11 and 12 are trained to work as peer helpers and students on their own campus, at feeder middle and elementary schools, at nursing homes, and at retirement centers. The program is approved by the Texas Education Agency as an elective course for credit toward graduation. The funding and coordination of this program originates in the Safe and Drug Free Schools and Community Program.

The primary goal of the P.A.L. program is to help other students have a more positive and productive school experience. In support of the goal P.A.L. students:

• Provide both individual and group peer support
• Help students make more informed and responsible decisions
• Promote improved behavior and school attendance
• Encourage improvement in academic performance
• Provide a "listening ear" for students

Positive outcomes are consistently reported from staff, students, and parents that have the opportunity to experience the P.A.L. Program.

PAL SPONSORS 2007-08

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