Meet MGMS 2023 Hope Squad

HOPE Squad is a peer-to-peer suicide prevention group. Here at MGMS, HOPE Squad members are nominated by their classmates as people they can trust. The members are then trained by Mr. Hamilton and Mrs. Berkholder. The program is intended to reduce suicide by educating and training the HOPE Squad members. These members are not counselors, they are here for students to go to if they are having suicidal thoughts or other issues then they are referred to take the matter to an adult. This is a big job for these members to take on throughout the year. They must be able to take on the responsibility of being there for other students and providing hope. In addition to providing hope, they also want to support making our school a safe environment, supporting anti-bullying, and mental wellness.

Eighth-grade HOPE Squad members

 Addyson Cragun’s favorite subject is P.E. because she loves being active. She joined HOPE Squad because she wanted to help others in need, support others, and learn more about her classmates.

Emery Neiderhauser’s favorite subject is History because she likes to learn about our past. She wanted to be on HOPE Squad because it is a great way to connect with people. Three things that make her who she is are tennis, friends, and family.

Eva Wixom’s favorite subject is science because she enjoys learning why things happen and how they work, she also likes science because she likes to see things react to each other. Eva did not want to be on HOPE Squad at first, but now she is really happy she got voted on to HOPE Squad because she really enjoys helping people and looking out for them. She loves all the experiences that she has gained and all the friends she has made. Eva's hobbies are rock climbing and acting.

Rylan Palmer’s favorite subject in school is math because she is good at math. She likes the HOPE Squad because she likes to help people. Rylan's favorite hobbies are tumbling, she also likes hanging out with her friends.

Brightyn Deboer’s favorite subject is cooking. The reason she likes the HOPE Squad is because she enjoys helping people feel included. The things that make her Brightyn are skiing, friends, and reading.

Case Cantwell’s favorite subject is History. He likes being on the HOPE Squad because he has fun learning and it helps him treat people better. The thing that makes Case himself is playing football.

Claire Korth’s favorite subject is math because she likes to be able to have a problem and use knowledge to solve it. The reason she likes the HOPE Squad is because she can learn how to help other people when they are struggling and help people know there is always someone there for them. The thing that makes Claire herself are her family, and her friends, and plays volleyball.

Seventh-grade HOPE Squad members

Lizzie Bell’s favorite subject is Spanish because she enjoys learning a new language. She likes being in HOPE Squad because she can make a difference and she is an observant person. The things that make Lizzie who she is are music such as playing the piano and singing, she also likes crossnet and she likes to read, she is a fast reader.

Taya Snow’s favorite subject is P.E. because she says it is active and helps her move. The reason Taya enjoys HOPE Squad is because she wants to help other people through challenges that they are dealing with. The things that make Taya who she is are her smartness she is also really friendly and she is energized.

Greta Sill’s favorite subject in school is history because she loves to learn about the world around her. The reason she likes being in the HOPE Squad is because she has a fun time helping the school and others. The things that make Greta herself are friends, crafts, and going boating.

Jonni Wright’s favorite subject is math because she likes working with numbers and using critical thinking skills. She joined HOPE Squad because she likes to be involved in the school and thought it would be a fun opportunity. Jonni enjoys competing in the Horse 4H competition, Ninja Warrior, and organizing.

Aaron Edwards’ favorite subject is P.E. “because you can do fun stuff,” said Aaron. He said he wanted to be on HOPE Squad because you can help people. Aaron likes to read, jump on the trampoline, and be with friends and family.

Franki Wright’s favorite subject is musical theater because she loves music, dancing, and being in musicals. She wanted to be on HOPE Squad because she wanted to get involved in school activities more. She likes tumbling, being in shows, and playing the violin.

Eve Sandoval’s favorite subject is P.E. because she likes to play games. She wanted to be on HOPE Squad because she wanted to help people work through their problems. Three qualities that she has been kind, funny, and sporty. 

Kiyah Burton’s favorite subject is science because you get to do fun experiments and activities. She wanted to be on the HOPE Squad because she likes to be involved in school activities and help other people. She enjoys playing soccer and dance. 

Cole Tripp’s favorite subject is P.E. “I want to be in HOPE Squad because I want to help people and I’m excited to make new friends,” said Cole. He finds pleasure in running, playing chess, and reading.

The HOPE Squad participated in the annual Suicide Awareness Walk in Sept. 

Some activities that the HOPE Squad are  Red Ribbon Week in Oct., Gratitude Week in Nov. with the student council, and HOPE Week in Mar. λ