At the Lindenwold School District, we’re all about empowering our students to make informed, responsible decisions that will positively impact their futures. One of the programs that perfectly aligns with this goal is Teen PEP (Peer Education Program). It’s not just a program; it’s a movement that’s making a difference, and we’re excited to share how it’s shaping the lives of our high school students.

What is Teen PEP?

Teen PEP is a youth-led program that aims to educate and empower students by providing them with the tools to make healthy decisions. It’s all about peer-to-peer learning, where high school students serve as educators for their classmates. The program focuses on topics like sexual health, relationships, decision-making, self-esteem, and communication skills. Teen PEP is designed to help students understand the importance of respect, consent, and healthy boundaries in relationships.

Why Teen PEP Matters in Lindenwold

In a world filled with distractions and pressures, Teen PEP provides our students with the guidance they need to navigate their adolescent years. The program gives teens a safe space to discuss issues they may not always feel comfortable talking about with adults. But what really sets Teen PEP apart is the fact that it’s led by students themselves. Peer educators—trained high school students—take the lead, creating a comfortable and relatable atmosphere for their peers to engage in conversations about difficult topics.

The Teen PEP program equips students with vital life skills that go far beyond the classroom. By engaging with their peers and learning from one another, students develop confidence, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

What Happens in Teen PEP?

Teen PEP students undergo a comprehensive training program where they learn about health education, effective communication, leadership skills, and how to be a positive influence in their school and community. After their training, these peer educators meet with our Freshmen to workshops, host discussions, and share knowledge on topics like sexual health, preventing bullying, and building healthy relationships.

Students who participate in Teen PEP become part of a network of young leaders who are committed to promoting positive change. They create a ripple effect of good decision-making, teaching their peers about consent, respect, and the importance of having open conversations about difficult subjects.

As we continue to foster an inclusive, empowering environment at Lindenwold, Teen PEP plays a vital role in shaping our students’ futures. By teaching them how to communicate openly, respect others, and make informed decisions, we’re building the foundation for a healthier, more supportive community.

We’re so proud of the students who participate in Teen PEP and can’t wait to see how they continue to inspire their peers. So, to all the teens in Lindenwold: Take the lead, make a difference, and continue to empower yourselves and those around you!

NJ4S is a statewide student support service, which provide a range of wellness services aimed at supporting our students and their families.The NJ4S program focuses on social, emotional, and mental health well-being through student-centered programming that includes evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies. These encompass substance use prevention, anti-bullying initiatives, and violence prevention.

The Center for Family Services has been identified as the provider for Camden County, offering the following three tiers of services:

Tier 1: Universal prevention interventions for all students, including workshops, webinars, assemblies, and trainings.

Tier 2: Early identification and focused prevention interventions specifically for middle and high school students.

Tier 3: Intensive and individualized assessment and intervention services for middle and high school students, which require direct parental consent for those under 16.

All students at LMS and LHS are eligible to receive school-wide Tier 1 services that are developed and delivered in partnership with the District. Tier 2 services will target specific grade levels or groups of students. For Tier 3 services, parental consent is required for students under 16, and your child's school will reach out to you if these services are recommended at any time.

Tier I services are open to the entire community and you can check the nj4scamdencounty's social media pages for the most up-to-date schedule of events.

Care Solace is the mental health coordination service for Lindenwold Public Schools. Finding mental health and substance use treatment providers can be a daunting task. Care Solace helps you find the right help at the right time. They are here to support you with equitable access to care regardless of coverage, including private insurance, Medicaid, and sliding scale options for those without insurance. Their experienced Care Companion™ team is available to you at all times — including nights, weekends, and holidays — in 200+ languages to walk you through the mental health system. Find more information here: https://www.caresolace.com/site/lindenwoldk12

The first district-wide family engagement event of the 2024-2025 school year, Hispanic Heritage Night, was held on Thursday, October 18th at Lindenwold High School. The event featured face painting, authentic food from local staples La Esperanza and El Salvadoreno, and cultural music from LHS 2020 graduate Bryan Lopez and LHS Choir memebers. Lindewold Police and Fire Departments were also there! Thank you to all the families who attended and donated dishes to share!

This event was hosted by the district's Parent Outreach Committee and was very well-attended as always. There are two other district-wide family engagement events planned for this school with the next one being a Black History Month celebration in February.