Study Buddytastic! Sr. Leadership students act as buddies for Elementary students

Centennial High School has partnered with Samuel Shaw Middle School, one of our feeder schools, to run a Study Buddy program.  Our Gr. 11 and 12 Leadership students meet once a week with Gr. 5 or 6 Students at S Shaw.  This is the fifth year the program has been running.

Last month when we arrived at Shaw we saw a number of post it notes up where the Gr. 6s were sharing things they love about their school. They talked about favorite classes, lunch, recess, and other cool activities at school.  Two of the notes talked about our Study Buddy program.  I was so impressed that with all the things they could highlight they chose their Study Buddy.  The first note says “Being with my Buddy and playing 2 truths and a lie”.  The second says “Being with my Buddy and getting to know her”.

How does our program work?  We go once a week with our class (Wednesdays) for 45 minutes.  My students come with a lesson plan or activities for the day.  We consult with their teachers before as to what to work on.  In the past we have done science, social studies, reading, and math.  We have also worked on social skills or English as a second language.  This term we are working with the theme of positivity and appreciation as requested by the Gr. 6 teachers.   Last week they got in groups of 4 and put positive post it notes on each other’s backs supporting that week’s theme of validation.  It is critical to not give their teachers more work with another program.  They give us general ideas and then we do the planning and work.

Program Rewards –  When we arrive at the school everyone recognizes our students in their Leadership T-Shirts.  Former Study Buddies high five me in the hallway.  There is an excitement from the Gr. 6s to meet with their Buddy.  My Leadership students feel like they are doing something real and important.  They come with a plan and work hard to make a difference with their buddy.

It is a highlight of every week for me to be a part of this program.  Consider starting a Study Buddy program with one of your neighborhood schools.

Brent Dickson