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Southern Kern Unified officials hear detailed report on Hope Squad peer mental‑health program
Summary
District staff and board members heard a presentation on Hope Squad, a student‑led peer support program active across grade levels. Presenters described training, events and curriculum aimed at reducing stigma and increasing referrals for students in crisis; board members asked for follow‑up updates and wider staff involvement.
Cheryl, a Hope Squad presenter, told the Southern Kern Unified School District board that the student‑led program “educates the entire student body to reduce stigma and change their school's culture both at school and on media.”
The presentation described Hope Squad activities at elementary, middle and high school sites, teacher/adviser involvement, and a multi‑year curriculum. Cheryl said the program trains students to notice warning signs, “offer support to others” and “provide resources, to go to trusted adults,” and that students’ outreach includes weekly events, an open‑door lunch, schoolwide banners, friendship‑bracelet activities, a color run and Special Olympics events.
The program adviser said parental buy‑in has been strong: at recent…
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