Dover elementary counselor presents 'Sidekicks' peer-mentoring program to the board; students speak about benefits

Jessica Nolles, the school counselor at Dover Elementary, described the Sidekicks mentor program to the Dover Area School District board on May 14, explaining that selected fifth-grade students mentor younger peers weekly using games, academic practice and relationship-building exercises.

"Our sidekicks do become leaders, role models, learning partners, and trusted supporters for our younger students," Nolles told the board, outlining a selection process that includes teacher recommendations and an application by older students. She said the program supports district goals for student achievement, belonging and a positive school climate.

Several fifth graders came to the board to explain their experiences. "I like being a Sidekick because I want to show collaboration and helpfulness by working together with the first grade students," said Austin Wallace, describing activities such as reading, counting and homework help. Noah Solder added that mentoring helped his buddy learn counting strategies, and Anna Miller described working with her mentee Violet and improvements the younger student made in math.

Nolles said meetings are timed so younger students do not miss core instruction and noted that older students spend some of their own recess time volunteering. A short video and musical performance from the students illustrated how mentors and mentees interact during sessions. Board members thanked the students and praised the program’s positive effect on school climate.

The presentation concluded with the board confirming interest in seeing the full video at a later time and congratulating the student mentors for their contributions.