I believe we can do something to keep these children from slipping away. The legislation is modeled after a program in San Francisco called the Peer Resource Program, which trains youth leaders, who then help other students any number of ways, from giving educational workshops, to tutoring, to conflict resolution training, where trained conflict managers help their peers talk about disputes in an effort to reduce youth violence. In over 90 percent of conflict cases last year, peer mediators were able to help other students resolve their problems peacefully. Research also shows that the program raises kids' grades and helps them stay in school. Given the positive results of this program, it makes sense to make it available statewide, and give kids the opportunity to establish themselves as positive role models for one another.
Times are hard.
Growing up is difficult. Youth to Youth peer programs offer a ray of hope for kids who might otherwise get lost in the battle.