HOPE SQUAD WEEK
The mission of HOPE Squad is to “Reduce youth suicide through education, training, and peer intervention.” The vision of HOPE Squad is to have a HOPE Squad in every school nation-wide. Owyhee Combined School has established a HOPE Squad consisting of both junior high and high school students and advisors Shana Thomas-Jim, School Counselor; and Kyndra Thomas, School Social Worker. Also assisting the HOPE Squad is teacher Pamela King.
The core values of HOPE Squad are education, initiative, openness, self-care and community. Areas HOPE Squad focuses on are safety, connectedness, bullying prevention, mental wellness, reducing stigma and substance abuse prevention.
The OCS HOPE Squad was busy the week of September 5, preparing for HOPE Squad Week, held last week. Monday saw Hot Cheetos and Lifesavers being handed out to students. The message was “Heart of the Land–Prevent Suicide”. HOPE Squad members spent time with the elementary students during recess. Lunch time activity was tug of war contests between different teams or classes.
Tuesday’s message was “Jonathan Lived Experience PSA”. Watermelon was the treat and UNO in the lunchroom was the game of the day. Fist Bumps was the message for elementary and HOPE Squad spent time with the students at recess times.
Watermelon was the treat on Wednesday, and the message was Seven Generations–Prevent Suicide. Lunchtime game was HOPE basketball and the elementary message was Hello Friends.
Thursday brought an end to the activities. The treats for secondary were otter pops and water, and the daily message was “We are Connected.” HOPE Squad members gave High Fives to the elementary and spent their last recess for the week with them. Thursday afternoon the high school HOPE Squad members went into the elementary classrooms (1st-6th grades) and shared popsicles with them. They also introduced themselves and said one helpful/friendly thing that students can do. Pre-K and Kinder received popsicles during their lunch.
It was an educational and eventful week for all students and staff. The HOPE Squad worked hard to put together the events and ensure all went according to plan. The junior high HOPE Squad is already at work on their next project. Thanks to all who participated.