Peer to Peer is a school-wide program designed to increase academic and social engagement opportunities for students with autism and other disabilities. This is achieved by inviting multiple peers without disabilities to learn about their classmates with developmental or intellectual disabilities. Peer education gives students knowledge and skills that demystify disabilities and increase understanding and acceptance. Students learn to advocate with, and for students with disabilities.
Set up in pairs or a small group during a variety of school and extracurricular activities, peers model typical academic and social behavior while students with disabilities can practice and use skills in natural settings by learning from peers in a positive way. Authentic relationships form as students actively participate in activities together. In other words, Peer to Peer is a formal pathway for ensuring students with and without disabilities can meet, learn about, and develop friendships while receiving guidance and support from educators. Although each Peer to Peer program is different, the results are the same: improved outcomes for students with ASD as well as a more positive, accepting school culture for all.