Peer Partners

Course Overview

Welcome to Peer Partners! In this class, we'll come together to teach you how to relate to and work with students with varying special needs. Peer Partners is a reverse inclusion class which means that peers of the same age are included in the special education classroom. This creates a learning environment in which all students learn from one another.

Syllabus

Welcome to Peer Partners! In this class, you will learn how to relate to and work with students with varying special needs. 

Peer Partners is a reverse inclusion class. Reverse inclusion is when same age peers are included in the special education classroom.  This creates a learning environment in which all students learn from each other. 

Classroom teachers will provide specific training that demonstrates and models the skills students are expected to learn.  Students will be provided with training that encourages enjoyment, involvement, and feedback.  Students will receive confidentiality training prior to working with any students and will be expected to sign an agreement of confidentiality. 

Students empower their peers to feel capable, understood, and responsible.  They also model communication and social skills for students with varying special needs, enhance their self-esteem, support academic and personal achievement, and promote healthy choices. 

While peer partners provide support and modeling to students in the classroom, they also gain a great deal from the program. 

WHAT IS GAINED FROM BEING A PEER PARTNER:

• Knowledge of others similarities and differences

• Knowledge of disabilities

• Skills in working with other students

• Learn about self-advocacy, self-awareness, and self-determination

• Learn how to advocate for others, when necessary

• Laugh, share, and develop true, authentic relationships with others 

CLASS GOALS AND EXPECTATIONS 

• Learn to support others in a respectful and meaningful manner 

• Learn to assist and model skills such as: problem-solving, self-advocacy, and self-determination

• Role model social skills 

• Role model of classroom behavior

METHODS OF INSTRUCTION

Peer partners will work with students in a variety of academic settings.  Each class period will reflect the needs of the students per period that require assistance.  The peer partner will be provided modeling and experience in using a variety of teaching methods such as: 

• Team work

• Hands-on activities

• Group discussions

• Role-playing

ATTENDANCE

Classroom grades are based on attendance, meaningful participation, and following of the goals and expectations.  The Peer Partner program requires the student to demonstrate a positive, interactive, and engaged attitude. Tardiness and excessive unexcused absences will follow the Hill Country Codes of Conduct and many result in being moved out of the class.  

Additional Resources

Best Buddies

www.bestbuddies.org