[Jessica Trumble, PUSD]
Pioneer Union School District has been participating in the Safe School Ambassadors Program for the last three years and just recently completed anti-bullying training for this year. PUSD students in both elementary and middle schools were professionally trained over the last two weeks. Students participated in guided facilitation, active problem solving, and peer-to-peer bonding during training. Cheers, laughter, games, and meaningful conversations filled both campuses as students were being transformed into Safe School Ambassadors.
“Student ambassadors are trained to resolve conflicts, defuse incidents and support isolated or excluded students. Our kids see, hear and know things adults don’t, can intervene in ways adults can’t and are on the scene of an issue often before an adult; they are a critical part of making schools safe and welcoming for everyone,” said Superintendent Annette Lane.
Safe School Ambassadors is a student focused program that channels the power of students to prevent and stop bullying and mistreatment. Students participate in a two-day interactive training with adults that become program mentors. After completing training, students are guided by teachers that are now ambassador coordinators to meet every few weeks in small groups to continue development of creating a safe and welcoming environment for both students and adults.
PUSD will continue to train students yearly and be guided by teachers Boyd Holler, Adam King, and school counselor Carlyn Spencer. PUSD is committed to developing students through a wide array of programs and opportunities. Making a positive change as Safe School Ambassadors begins with the self and radiates to our students, schools, and communities.
For more information about PUSD visit pioneer.k12.ca.us.