Frankenmuth

By Mrs. Lauren McLean, Special Education Supervisor, and Mrs. Dawn Dafoe, Special Education Teacher and Peer-to-Peer Teacher/Advisor F or about a decade now, our Peer-to-Peer program at FHS has been building connections and breaking down barriers. Peer-to-Peer began as a student club providing social opportunities for students with unique learning abilities to gain confidence in communication, independence, and socialization, and though it still provides these opportunities throughout the year, it has grown into a club with more than 80 student participants, as well as an elective course, under the direction of Mrs. Dawn Dafoe. The Peer-to-Peer class allows students to earn credit while dedicating one hour each day to peer support and completing an online curriculum that deepens their understanding of inclusive educational practices. Students who serve as peer mentors enhance their own leadership, empathy, and communication skills, while the peers they support increasingly feel included, grow in confidence, and thrive socially and academically. Peer-to-Peer efforts have expanded across the FSD with the former BRASS Eagles program now a Peer-to-Peer affiliated group. In line with research from programs such as START's Peer- to-Peer model in Michigan, this approach fosters belonging, reduces isolation, and strengthens school culture as we continue to strive to make the Frankenmuth Schools a place for all. Peer-to-Peer Students learned how to shape and bake pretzels with a lesson inspired by Weiss Centennial Farm in Frankenmuth! A fun, hands-on activity that brought a little taste of a German tradition to the classroom. Lauren McLean, Special Education Supervisor Pretzel-Making Fun with Peer to Peer! Mrs. Dawn Dafoe, Special Education Teacher and Peer-to-Peer Teacher/Advisor Eagle-to-Eagle support and growth through FHS' Peer-to-Peer 16

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