 The Peer Buddy program has been in all CHCCS's Middle and High schools since January 2016. A District Level Facilitator & a SNAC Representative, Cathy Feole, developed the program model and trained school-based facilitators on implementation. The program facilitates friendships, builds leadership skills and promotes acceptance, understanding and awareness of differences among students.The Peer Buddy program supports ALL students including EC, ESL and general education population. Students meet with their buddy one time per week during lunch or another arranged time to engage in meaningful socially-based activities. Service learning hours are given to all High School students (mentors and mentees) who are participating. The Peer Buddy Program is currently funded by The Oak Foundation to pay for support staff, program activities & supplies. How is the CHCCS Peer Buddy program different from other Buddy programs like Best Buddies? The scope of our CHCCS Peer Buddy program is broader concept than many peer support programs such as Best Buddies. Many peer support programs focus on fostering relationship matches between those with disabilities and those without disabilities. Our program at CHCCS is unique in that we are focusing on building a broader community. We do not seek to build supports based solely on ability. Many of our most satisfied buddies have included students who are new to our school community, buddies that have shyness or anxiety, or buddies that are simply trying to broaden their friendship groups. Our Peer Buddy Program at CHCCS is a grant funded opportunity started by parents in the district and exists in all of our Middle and High schools. At the High School level we don’t make a distinction between a “Buddy” and a “Mentor” because we recognize that each Buddy partner brings value to the relationship. Watch this video about the Peer Buddy Program. CHCCS Peer Buddy Program Contacts: If you have a question or want more information about your student's involvement at the school level, contact your school facilitator.
For more information about the Middle School Peer Buddy Program, please contact Matt Straub, Middle School Peer Buddy Program Facilitator. Matt is a Grade 7 Counselor at Culbreth Middle School. For more information about the High School Peer Buddy Program, please contact Melissa Barry, High School Peer Buddy Program Facilitator. Melissa is a Carrboro High Adapted Curriculum Teacher. |
SNAC >