Training and Program Support
PAL Advisor Training
The Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) offers PAL Advisor Training, which provides the needed skills for teachers, counselors, or other school administrators to develop a certified 4th through 12th grade PAL program. Advisor training provides the “how to” of establishing a school site PAL program, including: components for organizing and implementing lessons, securing staff, selecting students, identifying resources, and evaluating the program.
Elementary Curriculum
The PAL elementary curriculum lessons are aligned with California Health Standards and offer a comprehensive, sequential leadership growth experience for students. The lesson goals include the development of knowledge in communication skills, decision-making, problem-solving, goal setting, cross-age helping, self-confidence building, cooperation, substance abuse prevention, stress/anger management, and healthy lifestyles. Students are trained in leadership skills that enable them to make an impact on their campus and prepare them for future participation in middle/high school PAL programs. This curriculum provides opportunities for whole group and partner discussions and journal topics to help students reflect, practice, and apply the skills taught.
Secondary Curriculum
The PAL middle and high school curriculum includes student lessons and activities to develop the following skills: group dynamics, self-awareness, understanding behavior, decision-making, problem-solving, communication, facilitation, public speaking and writing. Age appropriate topics are addressed, such as diversity, substance abuse prevention, anger management, and working with students who have special needs. Supplemental materials include: asset building, crisis management, dealing with bullies, and managing stress.
Technical Assistance
The PAL team is available to provide support to trained advisors with programmatic questions, program development, networking opportunities, and school site visitations. Contact Deirdre Hill, Program Specialist, at dhill@ocde.us or call 714-966-4342 for more information.
Program Updates
PAL advisors receive monthly email updates with activity ideas, funding opportunities, and other resources.
Outstanding Program and Advisor Awards
Each year, OCDE recognizes Outstanding PAL Programs and Outstanding PAL Advisors.