The HOPE Squad is a school-based, peer-to-peer, suicide prevention program.  Our goal is to reduce youth suicide and self-destructive behavior by training, building, and creating change in school and communities.  Our HOPE Squad students receive monthly training on suicide prevention, spreading kindness, and self-care each month.  HOPE Squad members are trained to look for students who are struggling and to try to get the struggling student to go with them to see a HOPE Squad Advisor.  If the student will not go, the HOPE Squad member reports their concern to a HOPE Squad Advisor.  The Advisor then follows up with the struggling student.  

HOPE Squad Advisors are Mrs. Rice, Mrs. Kelsey, Mrs. Kassmeier, Mr. Hoglund, Officer Nesbitt, Mr. Haake, Ms. Kipf and Mrs. Lyons.  Students are nominated to be on HOPE Squad by their peers.  These students are nominated based on the following criteria:  

1.  They are concerned about others

2. They are easy to talk with

3. They are a good listener

4. Someone you could turn to if you needed a friend

5. Someone who does not bully others

We know we have lots of great students at BMS who exhibit these qualities.  Although we would love to have all of them on the HOPE Squad, openings on the HOPE Squad are limited.  However, everyone is welcome and encouraged to join HOPEsters.  

HOPEsters is a meeting for every interested BMS student.  We meet once a month to discuss how each can play a part in improving the community and culture of our school.