Why Peer to Peer Support?

Peer to Peer is rooted in evidence-based practices, offering a win-win for all students involved. It provides a reliable framework for building meaningful connections and friendships, ensuring that peer partnerships are thoughtfully and intentionally integrated throughout the school day in both academic and nonacademic settings. As students with and without disabilities learn about each other and build trust, a range of positive outcomes naturally follows. These include reduced anxiety, an enhanced sense of belonging, increased confidence, higher engagement within the school community, and opportunities that extend well beyond the school environment.

Extensive research continues to highlight the advantages of Peer to Peer. Participants in the program gain valuable opportunities to practice social and communication skills, engage actively in class activities, form lasting relationships, experience a strong sense of belonging, and reduce their reliance on paraprofessional support (Carter et al., 2015). Moreover, peers play a key role in promoting access to and engagement in inclusive environments.