The Peru Gazette

By John T Ryan

Peru, NY  The day’s question was, “Do our guests think the unique ‘Sweethearts and Heroes’ leadership program, with its social-emotional learning focus, would be helpful in their workplaces?” On Friday, May 31, Peru School District Leadership Program participants welcomed business, government, and education officials to observe a program that school administration and staff say has significantly impacted the school over the past four years. High School Principal Matt Berry stated, “Some people think a school may not be the place to do this. I’m here to say that this may be the most important thing we do in our school.”

Berry related one experience: “One day, a worker was applying school decals near the front entrance. He remarked, ‘We work at a lot of high schools. Your kids are very nice.'” Berry said students are taking “healthy risks,” they’re more self-aware, and they make better-informed decisions than four years ago. Program Co-leader Jenifer Guay described a new, positive climate.  She commented, “Our students have molded a culture of positivity and support. We realize some days are going to be good, and some days are going to be bad. Everyone feels supported.” Both Berry and Guay said there has been a similar change among faculty members.

Sweethearts and Heroes founder Tom Murphy has visited Peru Central several times. He couldn’t attend Friday’s program but spoke via video. Murphy said, “Everyone knows a kid who’s struggling. Our message is about young people helping other young people when adults aren’t around. We teach people how to talk, listen, and be there with them. Our circles do that. They teach them to be vulnerable, care, and have compassion for one another.”

Guests participated in several ‘Sweethearts and Heroes’ circles. Matt Berry’s words came to life.  They began with a fun game resembling musical chairs. The person remaining standing had to pose a question. Who was or is your childhood hero? What event got you into the most trouble when you were a kid? Have you ever played sick on a work or school day?  What was one of your worst decisions? The guests and students listened, revealed life experiences, and were vulnerable. Over just 40 minutes, empathy and understanding grew. Students appeared to realize that successful adults make the same mistakes and undergo some of the same challenges they’re experiencing. The young people didn’t feel alone in their struggles.

Friday’s guests included State Senator Dan Stec, State Assemblyman Billy Jones, NYS School Area 6 Board Director Wayne Rogers,  NYS Regent Roger Catania, Foundation of CVPH Member Mrs. Julie Huttig, United Malt Executive President Bryan Bechard, SUNY Plattsburgh Field Experience Coordinator Rachel Day, Fessette Realty Sales Agent Cara Gauthier and NAC teacher-coach Noah Bowes. In the circle, the Peru Gazette observed, Craig Duprey indicated he would be working on expanding the program at Peru Elementary School. Wayne Rogers said he’d bring it to Malone, where he taught biology and has served on the school board for many years.

Peru School District participants included several student leaders, Peru School Superintendent Scott Storms, High School Principal Matty Berry, Associate Principal Joha Battin, Elementary teacher Craig Duprey, and Leadership Program Leaders teachers Jenifer Guay, Adam Carter, and Anna Stitt (Ethan Depo, a leader couldn’t attend). The Foundation of CVPH helps fund the program.