Loudoun County Public Schools reported on May 21 that nearly 250 students from 15 high schools, along with 40 PEER sponsors, school social workers, and counselors, attended this year’s annual PEER conference. The event focused on student leadership and its role in building stronger and more connected school communities.
The significance of the conference lies in its emphasis on fostering a sense of belonging among students. The Department of Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility delivered a keynote presentation highlighting the importance of finding common ground within school environments.
Throughout the day, various PEER groups presented their outreach efforts to attendees. These initiatives included organizing wellness weeks, field days, and creating videos aimed at promoting support and inclusion among students.
PEER stands for Positive Experiences in Educational Relationships. It is a specialized high school class within Loudoun County Public Schools that trains students to mentor their peers emotionally, socially, and academically. The program is managed by the Office of Student Mental Health Services.
The continued growth of student-led programs like PEER demonstrates an ongoing commitment to supporting positive relationships and mental health throughout local schools.
