D47 Hope Squad Students Strengthen Skills Through Active Listening Workshop with McHenry County Sheriff’s Department

Hope Squad seventh- and eighth-grade students from all three District 47 middle schools recently participated in an Active Listening Workshop at the McHenry County Sheriff’s Department. The workshop, led by professionals trained in crisis negotiation and peer support, taught students how to truly listen; not just to words, but to the meaning and feelings behind them.

Hope Squad is a peer-nominated program sponsored by Elyssa’s Mission that empowers students to build meaningful connections, recognize when peers may be struggling, and connect classmates to appropriate support. By partnering with local mental health agencies and community organizations, the program helps change the culture surrounding mental health in schools.

The idea for the workshop came from Amy Hoven, school counselor and Hope Squad advisor at Hannah Beardsley Middle School, and her husband, Sgt. Ryan Hoven, commander of the crisis negotiating team and member of the peer support team with the McHenry County Sheriff’s Department.

“Opportunities like this allow our students to practice essential skills in empathy, understanding, and connection,” said Kristin Schmidt, Director of Social Emotional Learning. “We are grateful to the McHenry County Sheriff’s Department for sharing their expertise and helping our students grow as leaders and caring peers.”

Local businesses also supported the day, including Georgios Pizza and Nothing Bundt Cakes, providing lunch for the students.

The workshop reflects the district’s commitment to its strategic plan by giving students meaningful, real-world experiences that strengthen community connections and help them develop skills that extend beyond the classroom. Experiences like this also give students the chance to build positive, trusting relationships with law enforcement.

About Hope Squad

Hope Squad is a peer-nominated program that harnesses peer-to-peer connections to reduce the risk of suicide. By training student members to recognize warning signs, connect those struggling to help, and partner with local mental health agencies, Hope Squad builds positive relationships and promotes a culture of care in schools. In District 47, Hope Squad is sponsored by Alyssa’s Mission, which provides the evidence-based SOS (Signs of Suicide) program for middle schools.