The Peer Assistance and Leadership (PAL) program is one of Plano ISD’s most impactful initiatives, offering students a meaningful opportunity to grow while serving others. Designed as an elective course, PAL equips students with essential life skills while strengthening school communities across the district.
Offered to eighth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth graders, the program is available on 15 campuses, including middle schools, high schools, and senior high schools throughout Plano. Students enter the program through a nomination and interview process, ensuring participants demonstrate strong character, responsibility, and a desire to serve.
At its core, PAL focuses on leadership development rooted in empathy, communication, and service. The curriculum includes training in communication, conflict resolution, teamwork, and decision-making. Students actively mentor peers, tutor younger students, and model positive behavior across campuses. As a result of the program, students report increased confidence, stronger relationships, and a deeper sense of belonging. When student Andrew Sims joined Plano ISD in sixth grade, he was assigned a PAL mentor. Now, as a high schooler, Andrew appreciates being able to give back. “I really enjoy the mentorship program. I love hanging out with the kids at Gulledge Elementary School. It's great being able to give them the mentorship I've been given.”
PAL students also play a visible role in improving school climate, serving as leaders during campus initiatives and district-wide service projects. PAL students lead and participate in projects that directly support the Plano community, including the annual fall sock drive, which has donated more than 30,000 pairs of socks since 2020 to various local organizations. District-wide kindness campaigns further amplify student impact.
Ultimately, the PAL program prepares students not just for academic success but for life beyond the classroom. Tenth grade student Ella Gould feels like she found her life’s purpose thanks to the class. “Once I joined PALs in eighth grade and started working with the special education students, it helped me realize that this is something I want to go into for my career. I want to make a difference in the special education community.”
By practicing leadership through service, students develop civic responsibility and a lifelong commitment to making a positive impact. In Plano ISD, PAL is more than a course. It is a foundation for future leaders who lead with heart.
At its core, PAL focuses on leadership development rooted in empathy, communication, and service. The curriculum includes training in communication, conflict resolution, teamwork, and decision-making.