Dare County Schools

Peer Power classes with Dare County Sheriff’s Officers  - all from left - (back  Peer Power Health Education Specialist Brenda Shiflet, Corporal Billy Essick, Isaiah Lowe, Maddy Owens, Becky Dixon, Martin Garcia, Corporal Mark McKay, Corporal Gary Kierney; (front)  Peer Power Health Education Specialist Samantha Simmons, Or’Shon Sampson, Hallie James, Crysta Edwards, Madison Maher, Charity Kennedy, and Marlee Putnam.

... Learn to Reach Higher Objectives

The Dare County Department of Public Health’s (DCDPH) Peer Power program is a model for community collaboration and primary prevention of chronic disease. This program, in partnership with Dare County Schools, targets the nation’s leading health indicators of chronic disease – physical inactivity, overweight/obesity, and tobacco use by utilizing peer health education.  The high school students that take the Peer Power class are trained as Peer Health Educators (PHE’s) and teach younger students at the middle and elementary school level.

PHE’s are taught that one of the most valuable ways to reach their younger peers is by engaging the students in hands-on education, as opposed to relying solely on a lecture style approach.  On October 27^th, the PHE’s teamed up with the Dare County Sheriff’s Office to experience a unique team building activity first-hand.

The Alpine Skills Tower II and Giant Swing is a newly revitalized ropes course that is offered through the Dare County Sheriff’s Office as a free community resource.  The 50 foot tall tower and giant swing is an impressive structure that commands the attention of all who see it.  Once the Peer Power PHE’s were outfitted in the proper harnesses and helmets, they were challenged to climb to the top.  Cheers of encouragement for every climber filled the air, and one could practically see the level of self-confidence rise with each step closer to the top. 

First Flight sophomore Becky Dixon expressed what all were likely thinking once conquering the tower, “I feel so good!  I feel like I can accomplish anything!”

Peer Power PHE’s must have a deep understanding of the importance of team-building activities in order to learn how to work together as a team, build bonds, and explore leadership styles.  The Alpine Course offered a great opportunity for the students to develop each of these qualities, while having fun in the process.

For more information on the Peer Power Program, please contact the Dare County Department of Public Health’s Health Education Specialist, Samantha Simmons at 252-475-5051.

Copy/contact:  Kelly Nettin 252.475.5036
photos: sps