When elementary students see an older peer excelling in math, it changes what they believe is possible. Through the Big Lions Little Lions program at E.L. Haynes, high schoolers are proving that peer mentorship is one of the most powerful tools for academic growth.
This year, a dozen dedicated high school volunteers stepped up to mentor elementary students in foundational math facts—addition, subtraction, and multiplication. By mastering these basics now, younger students are equipped to tackle complex math with confidence down the road.
This peer-led model creates a dual impact: younger students gain inspiring role models, while high school mentors solidify their own academic knowledge and develop essential leadership skills.
Measurable Impact: The 4th Grade Pilot
The data from the program’s starting point in the fourth grade highlights the immediate return on investing in student leadership:
- 100% of participants (11 out of 11) made measurable progress toward their end-of-year fluency goals.
- Over 35% (4 students) have already entirely surpassed their annual goals.
- 5 more students are just one step away from full mastery.
Scaling Our Success
Because of this remarkable growth, Big Lions Little Lions is officially expanding to support our first- and third-graders. It is a powerful win for our younger learners, our high school leaders, and the entire school community.