This presentation highlights the SOAR (Student-Oriented Approach to Recess) program, an innovative initiative designed to transform school culture through mentorship and structured play. By connecting college student-athletes with K-12 students, the program fosters positive social interactions, decreases disciplinary issues, and boosts academic performance.

Presented by:

• Dr. William Hesse: A professor at Ottawa University and Chair of the Sport Leadership department. He is the Executive Director of HealthyLearningCultures.org and a primary author of the SOAR book.
• Matthew Gilbert: A veteran administrator with 17 years of experience in education. He served as an Assistant Principal at the K-8 level during SOAR's inception and currently holds an administrative role at Verrado High School.
• Diana Leivas: A "wellness champion" and 3rd-grade teacher. As a former student-athlete at Ottawa University, she was one of the original designers of the SOAR program and is now a contributing author