MISSION

"To surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve life"
GROUPS: Spirit Squad, 6th grade Girls Talk, 6th grade Boys Group, 5th grade Girls Group, Eighth Grade Chess Club.
RESOURCE: Everyone in a community can make a difference in the lives of children and youth. Turning Trouble Talk into Healthy Talk
How can we encourage children to engage in healthier friendships? Below are suggestions from Trudy Ludwig and recommendation by Drs. Charisse Nixon and Cheryl Dellasega in their book, Girl Wars: 12 Strategies That Will End Female Bullying.

• Catch children in the act of kindness and acknowledge it.
• Connect with your children's friends....and their parents.
  "If you can dream it, you can do it." Walt Disney 1901-1966
• Help children establish healthy boundaries in their friendships
• Find or create safe spaces for children at risk.
• Promote positive emotional expression through journaling and role playing
• Extend children's support network of people who care about them.
• Be a good listener and friendship role model yourself--don't be a Trouble Talker.
• Role-play with children to improve their critical- thinking skills and problem-solving strategies.
• Balance computer and phone time with face-to-face encounters.
• If it's beyond your ability to help, talk to a professional.