At The Sage School, we believe that education extends beyond the classroom. It’s about fostering connections, building a sense of community, and cultivating leadership skills in our students. One of the most cherished traditions that embodies these values is our Reading Buddies program, where our oldest students are paired with our youngest learners for a year of shared reading, mentoring, and growth.
Fostering Connection and Community
Every Friday morning, the school buzzes with excitement for All School Meeting and Reading Buddies. This dedicated time is more than just an opportunity for students to practice their reading skills—it’s a cornerstone of our school’s commitment to creating a close-knit, supportive environment. By pairing students from different grade levels, we encourage relationships that transcend age and grade boundaries, fostering a community where every student feels connected and valued.
Mentorship and Leadership in Action
For our older students, the Reading Buddies program is an invaluable opportunity to step into a mentorship role. As they guide their younger peers through books and stories, they also practice patience, empathy, and leadership—skills that are essential for their future success. These interactions allow our older students to reflect on their own experiences and to take on the responsibility of being role models. It’s a chance for them to give back to the community that has supported them throughout their educational journey.
A Year of Shared Growth
Each year, new reading buddy pairs are formed, and with them, new friendships blossom. The bonds created during these reading sessions often extend beyond the Friday morning block, as students find joy in sharing stories, discussing favorite books, and learning from one another. For our younger students, having an older buddy to look up to provides a sense of security and inspiration. For our older students, the role of a mentor brings a sense of pride and accomplishment.
A Tradition Rooted in Sage School Values
The Reading Buddies program is more than just a school tradition—it’s a reflection of The Sage School’s values. It embodies our commitment to partnership, community, and the belief that every student has something valuable to contribute. By encouraging students to connect across grade levels, we are building a school community where everyone has a place, and every voice is heard.
Looking Ahead
As we look forward to another year of Reading Buddies, we are excited to see the growth, learning, and connections that will continue to flourish. At The Sage School, we are not just educating students; we are nurturing leaders, mentors, and lifelong learners who understand the importance of community and the joy of shared learning.
The post Building Bridges Across Grades: The Sage School’s Reading Buddies Program first appeared on The Sage Center for Learning.