Wakeland High School offers numerous programs and clubs that students can join to contribute to the community and school. The PALs program stands out in a powerful way and helps students make a difference in their community. Through this program, high school juniors and seniors are given the opportunity to visit local elementary and middle schools, serving as mentors to help guide younger students. By spending time with these kids, offering guidance, and being there to listen, PALs participants help create a safe and supportive environment that supports personal growth and creates strong connections.
“I think PALs offers my students a unique opportunity to build positive relationships with older mentors, which boosts their confidence and social skills,” Mrs. Ruch, a teacher at Pink Elementary School, said.
Ruch claimed to have noticed significant changes in her students after they met with their PALs, particularly in their willingness to communicate and engage more in class.
“They become more excited to participate and show improvement in how they work with others,” Ruch said.
However, Ruch also mentioned some possible downsides to the program, as the kids sometimes get overly excited and have trouble focusing on their school work.
“Overall, the benefits far outweigh the challenges,” Ruch said.
Being a part of the PALs class requires more than just enthusiasm; it demands a unique blend of passion and empathy.
“Students must have the passion to work with younger kids, while making efforts to develop into leaders. This commitment is important because PALs students work on building relationships that go beyond age and background differences,” PALs teacher Coach Springer said. “Students must have the ability to make connections with students from all backgrounds, with different personalities, and varying interests.”
It’s about listening, adapting, and inspiring—traits that shape them not just as mentors, but as future leaders. In this supportive environment, they learn to embrace diversity, creating a sense of belonging that strengthens both them and the young minds they mentor.
PALs also serves as a class where the high school students can grow and learn important skills.
“This class has taught me the valuable traits and helped me strengthen my communication skills, and my leadership. Being in this class has shown me how to work with others, and especially since some of the kids are so young it helps me develop my communication,” senior Emmy Ballas said.
The PALs program has shown to have a significant impact on both the young and the older students as both roles require communication, empathy, and guidance. Ultimately, the older kids emerge from the program with a deeper understanding of leadership, responsibility, and the importance of community, making the PALs class a truly enriching experience for everyone involved.
