The Buddy Program

Built-In Mentorship

The Buddy Program pairs older and younger students—like a 7th grader reading with a 1st grade buddy, or a 2nd grader reading with a kindergartner—for shared learning experiences throughout the year. Buddies also enjoy field trips together and join one another for special classroom events. Teaching and encouraging a younger peer builds patience, confidence, and leadership in older students, while younger students gain a role model and an added layer of support.

"Cross-age mentoring strengthens critical thinking, empathy, and relationship-building for both mentors and mentees.