Sanford Pride Elementary has introduced a new program that provides its staff and students the opportunity to build relationships across the grade levels. The Buddy Classroom Program has emerged as an effective tool for enhancing academic, social, and emotional skills for both the older and younger students.
Through various activities and interactions, participants learn the importance of taking turns, actively listening, sharing knowledge, praising others' efforts, offering assistance, and working collaboratively to accomplish common goals.
Every classroom at Sanford Pride Elementary has a Buddy Classroom. They meet once a month for about 30 minutes during their morning meeting. On one Friday, Mr. Stone (4th grade), Mrs. Maier (3rd and 4th grade), and Mrs. Plumpton (Kindergarten) joined together, and all of the students participated in a letter/sound activity.
One of the distinctive aspects of the Buddy Classroom program is its emphasis on positive role modeling, according to Assistant Principal Kristin Daly. Older students are entrusted with the responsibility of serving as mentors and guides for their younger buddies.
Being looked up to by their younger counterparts, the older buddies experience a sense of pride in their ability to be helpful and make a positive impact. The presence of their older buddies provides a sense of comfort, support, and guidance for the younger students.
This provides a safe space where the younger buddies can thrive and feel encouraged to explore their academic and social potential.
Daly said the Buddy Classroom program holds the promise of remarkable growth for both the younger and older buddies. As the year unfolds, Sanford Pride Elementary anticipates witnessing significant transformations in their academic abilities, social skills, and emotional well-being. By engaging in the program's activities and experiences, students have the opportunity to develop essential life skills that extend far beyond their time in the classroom.