Some people might be surprised to find out Kearns once had a Hope Squad. They also might be wondering what the Hope Squad is. The Hope Squad is a group of students that helps other students who are struggling with suicidal thoughts and mental health. Sadly, the squad was dropped but some Kearns students have shown interest in starting the squad again.

The Hope Squad has several roles and responsibilities. An employee of Kearns High School for 17 years and someone who watched the Hope Squad for several years, Nancy Heckenliable says, “They spread positive messages throughout the school and prevent suicide.” The Hope Squad also has some important responsibilities that they take pride in. “As far as the kid portion goes it was just kids trying to figure out which students are struggling,” says Aimee Duran, an employee of Kearns High School for 30 years. So, if you were a part of the Hope Squad you would be trying to help find the struggling students and do your best to give them the resources and help that they need.

How might someone get involved in the Hope Squad? First Kearns High School students need an administrator to lead the squad and watch over the students. Next, and the most important part is to get a group of students to join. Duran says, “There is no charter, but faculty members nominate outgoing students.” So, any students who take pride in the school and care about struggling students at our school can join the squad. Anyone interested in the team can join the only problem is finding an administrator. Heckenliable says, “Some admins are very caring people and would be great for the Hope Squad.” To revamp our Hope Squad, Kearns High students would have to figure out who can be the administrator.

“I think it’s another friend or connection that people can have,” says Heckenliable. Having the Hope Squad will help those kids who are struggling, and it will provide support for them. Let’s be honest, Kearns students struggle with mental health and the Hope Squad probably won’t get rid of all the problems, but it will help some students in terrible situations gain hope again and that’s what this school needs. Use this link to sign your name if you are interested in joining the Hope Squad; https://tinyurl.com/db3rzfbn