Selection Process

Sample selection process

Eligibility

• Rising or current 8th graders in good academic and behavioral standing

• Demonstrated leadership in school, clubs, activities, or community service

• Commitment to serve as a role model for younger students
  
  

1. Teacher Recommendations (2 Total)

• Who: One from a current core teacher (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies) and one from any previous teacher (7th grade or elective teacher)

• What: Teachers complete a short evaluation covering:

  • Responsibility and reliability

  • Communication skills

  • Teamwork and cooperation

  • Initiative and problem-solving skills

  • Respect for peers and adults

• Format: Google Form or rubric with 1–5 scale and optional comments
  
  

2. Student Expression of Interest

• Method: Students complete a brief written or video “statement of interest”

• Prompt Examples:

  • “Why do you want to serve as a Peer Leader in your final year of middle school?”

  • “Describe a time you demonstrated leadership at school, in your community, or at home.”

  • “What strengths will you bring to our Peer Leadership team?”

3. Formal Application

• Student information, extracurricular involvement, leadership experiences, and community service record

• Parent/guardian signature confirming support

• Short self-assessment rating their own skills in:

  • Public speaking

  • Organization & time management

  • Problem-solving

  • Conflict resolution

• Optional space for students to list their top 3 preferred leadership roles (orientation leader, mentoring younger students, service project lead, event MC, etc.)
  
  

4. Short Interview (10–15 minutes)

• Conducted by a panel (counselor, leadership advisor, teacher leader)

• Possible Questions:

  • “How would you handle a disagreement within your leadership group?”

  • “If you noticed a new student sitting alone at lunch, what would you do?”

  • “What ideas do you have for improving student life at our school?”

  • “How will you balance leadership responsibilities with your academics?”

• Students should dress neatly and be on time (soft introduction to professional expectations)
  
  

5. Selection Criteria

• Teacher Recommendations – 25%

• Student Interest Statement – 20%

• Application Quality & Completeness – 15%

• Interview – 40%

• Goal: Select a well-rounded team with a mix of personalities, skills, and backgrounds
  
  

6. Notification & Commitment

• Students receive an acceptance letter or email

• Selected leaders sign a Peer Leader Contract outlining expectations:

  • Attendance at meetings and events

  • Positive representation of the school at all times

  • Commitment to assigned leadership roles for the year
    
    

7. Orientation & Training

• Leadership skills workshop (public speaking, conflict resolution, event planning)

• Team-building activities

• Planning session for first student-led initiatives