Buddy Program
The St. Bernard’s buddy program gives boys a chance to connect across different grades. This year, the buddy program looks a bit different than in years past. In November, kindergarten and Grade I “met” their Grade III and Grade IV buddies for the first time.
Each boy was asked to write a letter to their buddy explaining what he likes to do outside of school. Teddy F. (Kindergarten South) wrote to his buddy, Oliver S. (III-Leff) that he likes to visit his grandma - or “babcia” - at her apartment in Brooklyn.
Meanwhile, the second graders were reconnecting with their fifth-grade buddies whom they haven’t seen since March 2020. Although they were unable to meet up in person, they already knew one another’s interests. Each boy in Grade II and Grade V made lanyards for their buddy’s face mask. They considered questions such as, “What color or colors does my buddy like?” or “What pattern would look best?” “What bead color best compliments his eyes?” pondered a fifth-grader who decided to make his buddy a blue-beaded lanyard to match his cerulean eyes.
In a time when so many may feel isolated, the buddy program expands St. Bernard’s friendships school-wide. Whether passing one another on the stairs or watching a buddy perform his class alligator skit, buddies can experience connection knowing they’re all part of our 4 East 98th St. community.
