By Kevin McLaughlin
COVID-19 has affected the way we do so many activities and events, and the Peer Leadership program has been no exception. I spoke to advisor Ms. Pappalardi about some of the challenges that Peer Leadership has had to overcome this school year.
The main change that Peer Leadership has had to implement is the splitting of groups into three, with one peer leader per group. This is ensuring that all students can stay socially distanced. However, full groups are able to meet on Google Meet in order to interact with everyone.
The Peer Leadership program is designed to help freshmen feel connected to IHS, as well as to help seniors strengthen their leadership skills. Ms. Pappalardi explained how even while working through Google Meet, Peer Leadership has had success in achieving its goals.
“In the end, though, our seniors and our freshmen have made great connections with each other and our freshmen’s transition process into IHS has been an incredibly positive one,” she said. “It’s been a tremendous year.”
Unfortunately, Peer Leadership was not able to do the overnight retreat over the summer with Senior peer leaders, as well as the field day at Matthiessen Park in the fall. These events were an opportunity for students to build a sense of team and community, as well as a bonding experience between Freshmen and Seniors.
