Peer Counseling (PAC Center)

(PAC - Course #77406)

OPEN TO GRADES: 11-12

CREDIT: 5 - credits per sem.

PREREQUISITE: Application, Recommendation, PACK Advocacy Center Coordinator Interview, 2.5 GPA

A-G Pathway: None

OTHER INFO: A one-semester course. May be repeated for credit. Meets KHSD graduation requirements.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Student Advocacy Centers are student run centers that focus on restorative justice, building community on campus, and student and staff support. Using restorative practices implemented by students for students, Advocates help students take responsibility, be held accountable, and make amends for violating school policy and procedure. Using dispositions, relationship building, peer support, and frequent check-ins, Advocates help hold students accountable. Student Advocates participate in daily community-building activities within the PACK Advocacy Center and regularly assist with such efforts school-wide. Student Advocates learn the tenets of Restorative Practices and facilitate restorative dialogue and circles with students and staff. Advocates undertake passion projects and create and deliver student-centered workshops designed to better the school community. PAC Advocates also serve as academic tutors and peer mentors. Advocates are expected to be models of the behavioral expectations of the school and especially the culture of community of the school to all peers and groups on campus and our larger community outside of school. Student Advocates will have a range of duties including but not limited to running restorative circles, conflict resolution activities, assisting with organizational/study skills, inter/intra-personal skills, social skills, attendance issues, and other Tier One behavioral concerns. Typically, PAC Advocates are graded on participation and completion of quarterly projects. They are expected to conduct PAC routines, such as leading restorative circles and dialogue, examining texts, facilitating community-building circles, mentoring and tutoring their peers, and engaging in community outreach.

Expected outcomes for PAC Advocates include:

· Enhanced public speaking skills

· Development of leadership skills

· Increased critical thinking and listening skills

· Improved interpersonal, communication, and mentoring skills

· Expanded knowledge of the justice system

· Valued service to the community