“We teach prevention lessons to all kids,” said school counselor Kim Madsen who oversees the program. “We cover topics like how to handle emotions, stress, how to be a good friend to others and not bully and watch out for kids who are struggling and promote inclusiveness.”

The squad is made up of 24 kids from fourth, fifth and sixth grade, she said. “They’re peer nominated and we run the names by the teachers. Basically it’s kids that other students feel comfortable talking to when they’re feeling stressed or left out.”

Madsen said they hold Hope Week during February and the group does different things throughout the year. “We want them to be thinking of ways to teach their peers. There’s a whole curriculum we follow each year from Hope for Utah. They have great information.”

Hope squad meets twice a month for an hour, she said. “It’s really fun. The kids are always willing to serve. We have a PJ drive where the Hope squad goes around and gets donations. We sold heart suckers and friendship grams for Valentine’s Day that kids could buy for a friend with a little note. That was our favorite thing so we’ll do it again.”

They’ve also had some dances, said Madsen. “The kids teach other grades line dances and we have some themed dances like an 80s dance. It’s all to promote inclusiveness and friendship.