In an effort to further support students, Black's Mill Elementary School offers a one-on-one peer mentoring program.
The Partners in Learning Success program, also called PALS, matches students with a mentor to participate in monthly teacher-to-student mentoring activities, as well as weekly check-ins.
The BMES faculty and staff have volunteered to serve as mentors for the program. The mentors act as a source of encouragement which will further develop the child's sense of belonging at school.
"This has been a wonderful opportunity for the staff and students to establish positive relationships which will help students' self-esteem, emotional development and increased academic performance," said Principal Cindy Kinney.
The PALS September activity was a "get-to-know-you" activity, according to Kinney.
"This activity was a lot of fun for the students and it allowed the students and mentors to learn more about one another," she said.
The October PAL activity was a fall craft that the students and mentors were able to complete together.
The Dawson County Woman's Club has also helped to make this program work by "teaming up" with Black's Mill.
"They have been coming to read with students each month as well as awarding a student of the month." Kinney said. "Ms. Beth Paul from The Dawson County Woman's Club presented the PALS program and the school with a check to support the PALS program."
The money will be used for the mentor students to purchase a book at the upcoming book fair, according to Kinney.
"Black's Mill is very appreciative to the Dawson County Woman's Club for their continued support of our students," she said.