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Buddy program

PK 3 and 3rd grade

The 3K/3rd Grade Buddy Program at St. Hugh is a beautiful initiative that blends faith, leadership, service, and community building. Through the guidance of their teachers, the program helps foster meaningful relationships between younger and older students, promoting Catholic values in a nurturing and hands-on way.

Core Values and Activities:

Catholic Values:

  • The program emphasizes Catholic teachings, with 3rd graders helping their 3K buddies learn key aspects of the faith, such as genuflecting before Mass and performing the Sign of the Cross.
  • The older students set an example of reverence and respect during Church services, teaching their buddies proper Church etiquette and instilling a sense of awe for sacred traditions.

Role Models and Leadership:

  • The 3rd graders act as role models, not only through religious education but also by demonstrating leadership skills. Their responsibility is evident each week as they read to their buddies, teaching through stories, kindness, and patience.
  • By taking on leadership roles, the older students develop a sense of pride in their ability to guide and support the younger ones.

Service Projects and Community Engagement:

  • The program encourages service through collaborative projects like the buddy in house field trips, picnics, Easter egg hunt, and the Christmas show, which serves as an opportunity to give back to the younger students and create cherished memories together.
  • The third graders take on a mentoring role during these events, furthering their understanding of service, charity, and care for others.

Crafts and Storytelling:

  • Hands-on activities such as crafts and storytelling provide a creative outlet for the students to bond and learn. Storytelling also serves as a way for the older students to pass down knowledge and values in an engaging way.
  • Through crafts, the children create keepsakes that symbolize their connection, reminding them of the relationships they’ve built.

Special Relationships:

  • The beauty of the program lies in the lasting bonds it creates. The joy of hearing a 3K child call out “That’s my buddy!” highlights the deep connection between the two age groups.
  • For the 3rd graders, having a buddy is a cherished privilege, one that encourages a sense of empathy, responsibility, and mutual respect.

The 3K/3rd Grade Buddy Program not only helps young students transition into the school environment but also fosters spiritual growth, leadership, and a commitment to serving others. It’s an example of how education can integrate faith, responsibility, and community, building a foundation for lifelong values.