Polson Middle School

Positive Youth Development Programs at Polson Middle School

Positive youth development is an intentional, pro-social approach that engages youth within their communities in a manner that enhances youths' strengths; and promotes positive outcomes for young people by providing opportunities, fostering positive relationships, and furnishing the support needed to build on their leadership strengths.

Peer Helpers

Peer Helpers is for 7th and 8th students who are considered trustworthy and helpful to their peers.  These students are trained in communication and problem solving skills.  The training consists of a weekend retreat and five additional weekly sessions.  Upon completion of the weekend, Alumni Peer Helpers serve others through the following:  peer supported tutorial services, easing the transition for new students, discussion groups with faculty to improve student/teacher communication and respect, assisting the guidance counselors in orientation programs for students coming to Polson School.  They also work on community service activities to improve school culture. 

These trained peer helpers learn to respond effectively when their fellow students experience a wide range of difficulties, and they receive valuable coaching in connecting vulnerable peers to appropriate resources. If you are interested in this program please contact Peg Butler

Allies

A leadership program for 6th grade students who want to make a positive change at Polson Middle School through awareness campaigns and serving as role models for their peers. Students are nominated for this program by their team teachers. 

Epic

Epic is a joint effort between MYFS and Polson Middle School to foster targeted students’ social skills.  After the sixth graders are fully trained in the Allies program they then have the opportunity to practice their new skills through cooperative play and role modeling. 

Girl Leadership 

This program aims to promote positive self-esteem, body image and good decision-making skills while having fun and meeting new people in a safe and supportive environment. This group meets once a week after school. If you are interested in this program please contact Peg Butler

Choices 

High School students go to an 8th grade health class to review high school scenarios and answer 8th graders questions about high school. These visits happen once per trimester to each 8th grade health class.

Social Lounge

The goal of the program is to provide a space to deepen connection between students, student and MYFS staff, and help enrich the Polson After School Culture through play. The programming is light on curriculum, but structured in a way that provides a positive community building experience through play.  Students will connect with MYFS staff and participate in weekly activities like Mario Kart Tournament, Pumpkin Carving, and other age appropriate activities. If you are interested in this program please contact Justin Zeigler

Monday Funday

Monday Funday creates a safe space for students to join MYFS during lunch and Pride for conversation, games and connection. Takes place during lunch. If you are interested in this program please contact Peg Butler


Boys Council Lunch Groups (6th, 7th & 8th grades)

Boys Council provides boys with skills that will help them in school, sports, and home life. These skills contribute to their development into respected young males within their school and community. Topics covered include healthy competition, active listening, boys and their emotions, technology, and media portrayal of males, and more. Lessons adapted from One Circle Foundation’s, Boy’s Council Program. 

Who's Got The Power

Who's Got The Power is an anti-bullying program offered to 6th graders in health class at Brown Middle School. For 4 days, students will interact with classmates and discuss ways to promote inclusion and kindness at Brown. These interactive sessions help students understand the importance of being an "Ally" to a peer and help them become more aware of the resources and adults who can help them in the school.

Rainbow Lounge

Students meet during their lunch period.  Students identify as LGBTQIA+ students or allies.  We learn, play, and discuss life as it pertains to the LGBTQIA+ community. If you are interested in this program please contact Justin Zeigler