East Rockaway High School's Peer Leader Club is transforming school culture one kind act at a time.

Launched last spring with approximately 25 tenth and eleventh graders, the student-led organization has grown into a powerful force for positivity at the high school. The club's mission is clear: make everyone feel accepted, lift people up, be supportive, serve as advocates and help make the school a comfortable space for all.

Now comprising juniors and seniors, the Peer Leaders recently established a formal application process to welcome new members who share their commitment to fostering a supportive school environment. Through connection, kindness and leadership, they're working to strengthen the fabric of the high school community.

The Peer Leaders have already made their mark through diverse initiatives throughout the building. Members participate in new student groups run by the counseling office, providing mentorship and guidance to those just arriving at East Rockaway. They also offer building tours for students entering throughout the school year, helping ease the transition to a new school.

In September, Peer Leaders visited ninth grade classrooms to discuss the importance of getting involved, staying organized and utilizing available school resources for academic and social success. During National Anti-Bullying Month in October, they encouraged their peers to sign a Kindness Pledge during lunch periods, reinforcing the message that everyone plays a role in creating a positive school climate.

The group spreads kindness messages to the entire school population through morning announcements and recently painted kindness rocks that now brighten the grounds outside the school building. Looking ahead to Thanksgiving, they're planning a Gratitude Tree project to promote appreciation and community spirit.

Through their actions and example, East Rockaway's Peer Leaders are proving that leadership takes many forms and that simple acts of kindness can make a lasting difference in the lives of their fellow students.