Troy Youth Assistance Awards Ceremony
The goal of the Baker Buddy program is to form positive peer relationships and help students make meaningful connections to Baker Middle School. The design of the program creates a mentoring link between 6th grade and 8th grade students. While 8th grade students traditionally take on an active leadership role, the 6th grade quickly students learn from their example. There is a level of comfort and friendship between group members that allows for encouragement and growth.
Before the school year even officially started, our 8th grade members assisted with Adventure Island and registration. They represented our motto, “You can always be buddy.” They were a friendly smile, a helpful hand, and a great source of information for new faces during these transition periods.
6th grade students joined Baker Buddies in early fall. Our program structure usually entails two meetings a month; one before school and one after school. Before school meetings include breakfast. Members and their families’ donation a variety of items that are enjoyed and help everyone get their day off to a great start. During the meetings, students take on different challenges, activities, and games to build a variety of skills. Some of the noticeable skills include communication, teamwork, problem solving, and relationship building. We also incorporate service based learning projects when opportunities are available.
Some events from the year include a scavenger hunt to become more familiar with Baker; a Low Ropes course that challenges students physically and mentally; a bowling field trip to build new relationships and enhance social skills; teambuilding activities such as pasta towers and break-out sessions. We also incorporate service based learning projects when opportunities are available. For example, we will be making care packages for homeless Veterans and recently we had guest speaker that taught the group about service and therapy animals.
The growth and development of Baker Buddies goes beyond Baker Middle School. The skills and lessons easily transfer into real life situations. Advisors often notice students supporting each other, encouraging each other, and helping each other. This supports our mission: You can Always Be A Buddy. One thing we always ask our group is, “How can you be a buddy to someone in need?” Our students don’t hesitate to reach out and notice the positive impact. Please continue to encourage your child or children to always be a buddy to someone in need. Thank you.
The goal of the Baker Buddy program is to form positive peer relationships and help students make meaningful connections to Baker Middle School. The design of the program creates a mentoring link between 6th grade and 8th grade students. While 8th grade students traditionally take on an active leadership role, the 6th grade quickly students learn from their example. There is a level of comfort and friendship between group members that allows for encouragement and growth.
Before the school year even officially started, our 8th grade members assisted with Adventure Island and registration. They represented our motto, “You can always be buddy.” They were a friendly smile, a helpful hand, and a great source of information for new faces during these transition periods.
6th grade students joined Baker Buddies in early fall. Our program structure usually entails two meetings a month; one before school and one after school. Before school meetings include breakfast. Members and their families’ donation a variety of items that are enjoyed and help everyone get their day off to a great start. During the meetings, students take on different challenges, activities, and games to build a variety of skills. Some of the noticeable skills include communication, teamwork, problem solving, and relationship building. We also incorporate service based learning projects when opportunities are available.
Some events from the year include a scavenger hunt to become more familiar with Baker; a Low Ropes course that challenges students physically and mentally; a bowling field trip to build new relationships and enhance social skills; teambuilding activities such as pasta towers and break-out sessions. We also incorporate service based learning projects when opportunities are available. For example, we will be making care packages for homeless Veterans and recently we had guest speaker that taught the group about service and therapy animals.
The growth and development of Baker Buddies goes beyond Baker Middle School. The skills and lessons easily transfer into real life situations. Advisors often notice students supporting each other, encouraging each other, and helping each other. This supports our mission: You can Always Be A Buddy. One thing we always ask our group is, “How can you be a buddy to someone in need?” Our students don’t hesitate to reach out and notice the positive impact. Please continue to encourage your child or children to always be a buddy to someone in need. Thank you.