Barbara Peterson

Peterson's "Teammates Mentoring Project" pairs students majoring in education at Black Hills State University with first through fifth-grade students at West/East elementary school. For one hour per week, mentors get an opportunity to build relationships with youngsters by playing games, building crafts, tutoring, talking or having lunch together. The purpose of the program is to provide children who lack a positive role model in their lives with an adult who will provide encouragement and build trust. Since its inception six years ago, the program has grown from impacting 10 students at one school to more than 60 at two schools. Peterson believes the collaborative effort between university students and the community is the reason for the program's success. Significant improvements in participating students' attitudes, grooming, behavior, and academic achievements have been noted. As prospective teachers, the education majors are afforded an opportunity to experience the importance of a positive relationship in helping a child become successful. Peterson resides in Spearfish.