Student Leaders at Milken: Empowering Peer-to-Peer Support and Shaping Our School Culture

At Milken Community School, leadership extends beyond traditional roles, with students taking active positions as mentors and role models for their peers. Through various leadership programs, students have the opportunity to shape school culture, provide support, and foster a sense of community. These programs—Madrichim, Vatikim, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and Peer Tutoring—are all grounded in the belief that students can make a meaningful impact on each other’s lives. Faculty members, including Jessie Alyesh (Madrichim), Max Greenberg (Vatikim), Ziva Silverstein (Big Brothers/Big Sisters), and Joshua Marcus (Peer Tutoring), are integral in guiding these programs and supporting students in their leadership journeys.

Milken’s National Honor Society (NHS) runs a Peer Tutoring program, led by faculty advisor Joshua Marcus and this year’s Tutoring Coordinators, Sophie Skolnik ‘26 and Michelle Pakravan ‘26. Rooted in the core value of Areivut, or taking responsibility for one another, and inspired by Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, the program allows students to help their peers academically while fostering a culture of support and collaboration.

Students seeking academic assistance fill out a request form, and Sophie and Michelle match them with an NHS tutor based on subject area and availability. Tutors and students then coordinate meeting times directly, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for all participants. The program allows students to return for additional tutoring sessions, even requesting the same tutor if they choose.

Sophie was inspired to take on this leadership role because of the support she received from peers throughout her years at Milken. “I knew that my peers would help me understand concepts as they were learning or had previously learned the same topics,” she shares. “Once I applied for NHS and found that I could be a peer tutor and manage the peer tutors, I didn’t hesitate. I love the idea of helping my peers in a more structured environment.”

For Michelle, peer tutoring is an opportunity to foster a positive learning experience for others. “I enjoy learning in my classes, and I wanted to make that experience easier and more accessible for my peers,” she says. “Through teaching others, I’ve learned to be more patient and ensure everyone understands each step of the process.”

Beyond individual tutoring sessions, the program also highlights the strength of collaboration and shared knowledge. “Each person has the ability to help one of their peers in a certain area, and it’s really fulfilling to match people up in ways that enhance their understanding,” Michelle explains. Both coordinators emphasize the importance of building strong foundations in learning, with Sophie adding, “Starting at the base helps as it builds a stronger foundation for students to understand the concepts.”

The Vatikim program provides a unique opportunity for seniors to mentor 9th-grade students and guide them through their high school journey. Through these mentorships, seniors not only share advice but also introduce younger students to core Jewish values that are central to the Milken experience. Max Greenberg, one of the faculty leaders of the program and the counselor for Division 11-12, works closely with the seniors to ensure they are providing meaningful support while also helping them grow as leaders.

Maddie Schwartz ‘25, a senior involved in Vatikim, describes the program as an opportunity to both teach and build meaningful relationships with the next generation of Milken students. "Vatikim is a mentorship program where seniors mentor 9th graders and teach them about our core values," she explains. "I wanted to join because I plan to go into education, and this is the perfect opportunity to teach others something important while making it fun."

Reflecting on the relationships she's built with her advisory group, Maddie shares, "The first time I met with my group was such a highlight. I was setting the foundation for our relationships, answering all their questions, and helping them feel supported. It felt great to give them advice that I wish I had received when I was in their position."

Shepard Johnson ‘25, another senior in the Vatikim program, also expresses the impact of mentoring younger students. "Vatikim has been an amazing way for me to connect with 9th graders and share my experiences with them," Shepard says. "I’ve really enjoyed helping them navigate high school, offering advice, and being there for them when they have questions. It's rewarding to be part of their growth."

The Madrichim program pairs 8th-grade leaders with 6th-grade students, allowing them to build relationships, provide mentorship, and serve as examples of kindness and responsibility. Students in the Madrichim program reflect on their own experiences and pass along the lessons they've learned to help their younger peers navigate the challenges of middle school.

For Jordan Ohebshalom '29, a Madrichim leader, the program has been fulfilling, especially when helping 6th graders grow. "It’s rewarding to help the 6th graders and see them really understand what you're saying," Jordan shares. "I like seeing them think about their actions and how it can positively impact them."

Noa Strauss '29, another Madrichim leader, highlights the importance of building genuine connections with younger students. “It’s really fulfilling to build connections with the 6th graders, and I think it helps them adapt to middle school better,” he says. Through their guidance, the 6th graders have a direct link to older students who can relate to their experiences, providing the sense of security needed during a transitional period.

The Big Brothers/Big Sisters program at Milken is designed to provide younger students with older mentors who can offer guidance, support, and friendship. Through this program, students like Brandon and Hannah are able to form deep connections with their younger peers and help them navigate school life.

Brandon Ohebshalom '26, a member of the Big Brothers program, has cherished the chance to connect with his "little brother," especially through the Jewish holidays. "I love connecting with my buddy, and every Jewish holiday we do something with them. It’s really nice," Brandon says. His role has not only allowed him to support his younger peer but also gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that younger students face. "It’s really helped me understand what they’re going through and how I can help them out."

For Hannah Soleimani '26, the Big Sisters program has given her the chance to give back while forming a lasting bond with her little sister. "It’s great to connect with someone younger and give them the support they need, especially when it comes to friendships or academic struggles," she shares. "It also brings me back to the middle school experience, which is nice. It’s rewarding to feel like I’m making a difference in her life."

Bella Banafsheha '29, a little sister in the program, values the opportunity to talk to an older student who understands her experiences. "Being in this program and being able to talk to an older girl and get advice has been so important to me." She adds, "We talk about everything—school, shopping, friendships—she's honestly like a sister now. It’s very comforting to know she’s been through the same things."

What makes these programs at Milken unique is the deep sense of community and support they foster. Whether through mentoring 6th graders, guiding 9th graders through their high school transition, offering academic support through peer tutoring, or forming close relationships with younger students as a big brother or sister, these leadership roles empower students to make a meaningful impact.

As faculty guide these students, it’s clear that the value of peer-to-peer support at Milken is more than just a program—it’s a culture. Through these leadership opportunities, students are not only helping each other succeed but are also setting the foundation for a supportive and connected school community. These young leaders are shaping Milken's future with kindness, wisdom, and a commitment to growth.