One of the many highlights of being in fifth grade at East Hills Elementary School is becoming a buddy to the new second graders arriving from Heights School. The buddy program allows the fifth graders to mentor and serve as role models, and the second graders are thrilled to have an older friend to look up to, confide in, and play with. 

Each year, the second grade and fifth grade teachers pair up to create fun and engaging activities for the children to do together. They meet once a month to create seasonal projects and foster friendships.

“Buddies have participated in writing assignments, art projects and team building activities,” said East Hills Assistant Principal Jennifer Sheehan. “We look forward to watching the buddy relationships prosper and grow throughout the entire school year.”