Rising 5th graders (or current 4th and 5th grade students depending on school setup)
Demonstrated responsibility, kindness, and willingness to lead by example
Teacher Recommendations
Who: One from current teacher or one from previous year’s teacher
What: Teachers complete a short rubric or form that rates the student on:
Responsibility and reliability
Empathy and cooperation with peers
Ability to work independently and in groups
Leadership potential and initiative
Format: Google Form or printed rubric with space for optional comments
A short, open-ended “I’m Interested!” form that allows students to express why they want to be a Peer Leader.
Sample prompts:
“Why do you want to be a Peer Leader at our school?”
“What are some ways you help others at school?”
“What is one idea you have to make our school better?”
Can be handwritten or digital (Google Form, etc.)
Simple and accessible form including:
Student name, teacher, grade
Guardian permission signature
Checklist of roles/skills (public speaking, helping younger students, etc.)
Option for student to choose their top 2 areas of interest (e.g., school tours, mentoring, leading games, etc.)
Conducted by counselor, leadership advisor, or admin
Questions may include:
“Tell us about a time you helped a friend or classmate.”
“What does being a leader mean to you?”
“What would you do if you saw someone left out at recess?”
Consider a group interview format (3 students at once) if time is limited
Scoring rubric combining:
Teacher Recommendations (25%)
Interest Form (25%)
Application Completion (10%)
Interview (40%)
Aim for a diverse, inclusive group representing different personalities, interests, and backgrounds
Selected students and families are notified by letter or email
Host a short Peer Leader orientation session with expectations, role descriptions, and leadership training activities