CLEARWATER, Fla. — “Peers as Partners in Learning” is a statewide program through the Florida Inclusion Network that is being offered at Clearwater High School this year as a pilot program.  

It strategically pairs student mentors with ESE students. The pair then attend general education classes together, with the mentor there to help their mentee as needed. So far, teachers say the program has been a huge success.

“With them having a specific peer assigned to them, they’re able to build that comfort level and be more confident and want to speak out in class, engaging in conversation and sharing in the discussions,” said ESE teacher Alexandria Neal.

Student mentor Brett Skinner and mentee, Justyn Lopez Moreno, said they both feel like they’re benefiting from the program. 

Brett, who is a Junior, is paired with Justyn, a sophomore. He attends Justyn's Algebra 1 class with him to lend a helping hand.  

Aside from the academic support, the program also aims to provide ESE students social and emotional support in an inclusive setting.

While Justyn says he struggles with math, he wants to pursue a career in science.

“Since I have a disability, I would like to use my brain instead more, and I kind of understand more science than math,” he said.

Brett says it feels good to see Justyn already doing better in Algebra class.

“Those who may struggle in subjects may find themselves enjoying the subjects more, and getting better grades and be led down a path that’s a little bit brighter and more successful,” said Brett.

Just like the “peers” at Clearwater High School call their program — “People Encouraging Education Relationships and Success” — they say they’re living up to the name, one mentor and mentee at a time.  

Right now, there are 13 students involved in the pilot program. The school hopes to grow that number to 25-30 students by the end of the year.