Character Buddies
The Character Buddy Program focuses on students who are in need of positive role models in order for them to be successful at school academically, socially and behaviorally. The Character Buddies are those who have consistently demonstrated leadership potential, positive character and a willingness to help others. Student Buddies are selected based on a variety of criteria that include, but are not limited to, the following: social skills, motivation, family issues, poor self-esteem, academics, etc. Using feedback from the teacher and the family, the guidance counselor pairs the students, and sets up a “contract” for each student with individualized goals. Based on the number of goals per child, success percentages are established, and a weekly reward schedule is implemented. Rather than being extrinsic rewards, these activities may include: working together as they read a book, writing a story together, attending outside enrichment sessions focusing on physical education, math enrichment in the gifted classroom, guidance (social skills activities), and/or visiting the Media Center together.