St. Ann School Buddy Mentorship Program
The first year at a new school can be both exciting and challenging. For the youngest students at St. Ann’s (I.e. Kindergarteners) it can also feel a little overwhelming. It takes time to adjust to a new environment, meet new kids, and get used to being around lots of older kids. This is where our school’s Buddy Mentorship Program comes into play. Having an older student be a Buddy Mentor to a lower grade level student significantly impacts their school experience in a beneficial way.
What is the Buddy Program?
This is a special St. Ann student mentorship program which places an upper grade level student with a lower grade student. First, an 8th grade student is paired with a Kindergartner. Additionally, 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade students are also placed with a middle school “buddy”. These Buddy Mentors provide support, guidance and encouragement - along with their friendly face! - to intentionally foster a positive academic experience of belonging. The school quickly becomes that of a familial community. The young ones look up to the older kids with admiration and respect, and the older kids learn the practice and importance of leadership and positive role modeling.
The Role of Buddy Mentor
There are many opportunities for older buddies to foster this mentorship relationship. This becomes such a school highlight for the little buddies to have their very own big “buddy” to do special activities with. It’s also evident the older students take pride in their role.
What is the power of our Buddy Program?
Our Buddy Program breaks down the boundary lines between upper and lower level grades. Everyone interacts and gets to know one another. Buddy mentees get a role model to walk alongside them throughout the school year. This makes them feel seen, known and cared for. Buddy Mentors develop leadership skills and a sense of meaning that will be carried with them far into the future. Furthermore, an intentional community of support is cultivated all year long amongst the entire student body.