As incoming freshmen start their Upper School journey, one of their first experiences is meeting their Peer Group. A rite of passage for all students, Peer Group helps introduce ninth-graders to life in the Upper School, giving opportunities to bond with new and returning students. Led by three senior mentors, freshmen participate in activities, games, competitions, and lessons. Altogether, it is an amazing way for new Upper School students to connect with each other and their upperclassmen. Freshman Sharray Bhardwaj stated, “I learned a lot more about people I never would’ve talked to and made even closer connections to those I already knew.” 

During a typical lesson, students take a break from their traditional academics, instead participating in activities that help them in their future high-school careers. Peer Group serves as a bridge between learning hands-on learning for school and enjoying time with your fellow peers and upperclassmen. Peer Group Mentor Julia Escobar mentioned, “We tackle quite a bit of serious topics which no kid or leader wants to do at 9:00 am.” Escobar also mentioned that she appreciates that everyone can go back to their friendships and fun even after discussing serious issues. Peer Group stands as a bridge for students to meet each other and for first-hand experience to guide them through their obstacles.

What makes Peer Group unique to PDS is the dynamic between students and mentors which allows for more spaces for students to feel included and welcome. Peer Group has paved the way for freshmen to understand how to navigate through PDS from older and more experienced students. With events such as the Skating Party in March and the Peer Group Retreat at Fairview Lake in April, there are many opportunities for our groups to grow and learn with each other. As Peer Group continues to evolve, it remains foundational to the PDS experience by guiding new students through the challenges of high school, forming friendships between other students and their mentors, and ensuring that every student has a place where they can feel heard, supported, and most importantly, part of a community.