Peer Group Connection helps incoming freshmen successfully navigate their high school years and build positive peer relationships by connecting them with trained juniors and seniors who serve as the freshmen’s peer leaders and guides. "This program helps new IDEA scholars make a successful transition from middle school to high school with the help of scholars in older grades providing support and encouragement," noted Ms. Yvette Brown, IDEA social worker.

 

Pairs of junior and senior peer leaders meet with small groups of freshmen to build friendships across grades. Those leaders are also enrolled in a daily, for-credit, year-long leadership course taught by school faculty during regular school hours. Research has shown that Peer Group Connection improves graduation rates and cuts down on dropout rates.