Staffers of LaSalle Springs Middle School in Wildwood hosted a Picnic with Peers event on Sept. 13 for sixth graders. 

During the event, 300 sixth-grade students enjoyed lunch with 80 eighth-grade students, who serve as Where Everyone Belongs (WEB) Leaders. WEB is a nationally implemented mentoring program geared toward assisting middle schoolers with this big transition in their lives.

WEB is a yearlong transition program with four components that contribute to its success:

• Middle School Orientation - WEB Leaders and sixth and seventh graders start building the mentor relationship and receive information about how to be successful in middle school
• Academic Follow Ups - WEB Leaders support sixth and seventh grade academic success and character development through classroom visits
• Social Follow Ups - WEB Leaders and sixth and seventh graders connect outside the classroom at social events to increase student engagement and promote positive school climate
• Leader Initiated Contacts - WEB Leaders connect with their sixth graders on a more individual basis

The picnic was held at LaSalle Spring’s outside pavilion and amphitheater, according to Rockwood School District sources.