At Huron Valley Schools, safety patrols are helping elementary students develop leadership skills while supporting the safety and well-being of their classmates.
The safety patrol program is active at all eight HVS elementary schools, giving students the opportunity to take on important responsibilities throughout the school day.
At Country Oaks Elementary, more than 70 fifth-grade students are participating in the program this year. Their responsibilities include holding doors, helping with lost and found, managing recess equipment and assisting students arriving by bus or leaving through parent pickup.
“It teaches them to be responsible. It teaches them to be respectful. It teaches them really great communication skills with adults and students,” said a Country Oaks staff member.
For the students, serving as a safety patrol is also an opportunity to grow as leaders.
“It makes me feel really good that I can be a leader and help my other classmates with whatever they need,” one Country Oaks student said.
The patrols are often among the first people younger students see when they arrive at school, helping them find their way and feel comfortable as they begin their day.
Staff members say watching older students take ownership of their responsibilities — particularly when helping younger classmates — is one of the most rewarding parts of the program.
“It makes me feel proud and happy when I see our students in this role,” the Country Oaks staff member said. “They really enjoy being a leader and taking on that role as they mature.”
Through safety patrols, HVS students are learning that leadership can take many forms — including helping others, communicating with adults and peers, and making their school community a welcoming and safe place for everyone.