What do I tell parents when they ask if Hope Squad is too much for their child?

It is understandable for parents to wonder whether serving on Hope Squad could feel emotionally overwhelming. Hope Squad is intentionally designed so that students are supported peer leaders—not counselors or crisis responders. Members learn how to notice concerns, offer appropriate support, and connect a peer to a trusted adult rather than carrying responsibility for solving the problem themselves.

Hope Squad also provides parent presentations and information resources that schools can use to explain what Members learn, what their role includes, and the safeguards built into the program. Parents and guardians provide permission before a student participates and should have an opportunity to ask questions about the role.

Our evaluation data are also reassuring. 98% of parents surveyed said being on Hope Squad was not too much pressure for their child, and 99% said Hope Squad had been a positive experience for their child.* Member data similarly show high levels of satisfaction with helping peers and low levels of reported emotional burden.

Advisors continue to monitor Member well-being throughout the year, reinforce healthy boundaries and self-care, and provide opportunities for students to step back or receive additional support when needed.

*25-26 Parent End of Year Survey