Every year, Hillsborough High School’s Peer Plus Program takes a field trip to the Bridgewater Commons Mall, where they accompany the school’s group of students from special education classes. Students who are also members of Hillsborough’s Peer Mentoring Program may choose to take part in the Peer Plus Program where they work and spend time with the students in these classes. It is a great opportunity for the Peer Mentors to make new friends and work with new people.

On Friday, Dec. 4, the students in Peer Plus took a trip to the mall and spent their day shopping with the special education students. Organized by the program’s two advisers Laura Houssell and Melissa Griffin, the trip was a complete success and all students, both the Peer Mentors and the ones in special education, enjoyed themselves. All of the students were separated into groups and were accompanied by aids. The groups were given freedom to roam the mall as they pleased in order to purchase all of the items on everyone’s lists.

On Monday, Dec. 7, the program gathered again in the commons during first and second periods. Tables were set up with snacks and drinks to be enjoyed by all of the students. There was also a table dedicated to wrapping paper, bows, ribbons, and other supplies needed to wrap presents purchased in the mall on Friday.

Assembly lines were formed and everyone got into the holiday spirit and worked together. By the end of the two periods, all of the gifts were ready for Christmas.

Seniors Julianna Bloch, Becca Delaney, and Casey Townsend, along with junior Emily Kreiswirth, are four students who are a part of the Peer Plus Program who do their best to help out the advisers. Working closely with special education teacher Mary Dubberly, Delaney helped to plan the mall trip and make sure everything was in order. Her favorite part of the trip is actually being with the students.

“I love the annual mall trip because we get to spend time with everyone outside of the school environment,” Delaney said.

Bloch and Kreiswirth work closely with Houssell behind the scenes of the club and organize specific aspects such as ordering t-shirts for everyone and collecting money. Townsend helps to plan the parties and makes sure everyone is responsible for bringing in snacks and supplies and that everyone is having fun.

Overall, the activities and events planned by the Peer Plus Program, whether it be by the advisers or with the help of the students, are always a success. The mall trip in particular worked out perfectly and allowed for everyone who attended to have a good time.