So many kids are willing to help others at Valley View Elementary School that there are more volunteers than those looking for a buddy.
The “Ram Buddy” is a student who has filled out an application to help another student in their daily walk at school. Some responsibilities would be encouragement, saying hello, inviting and playing with the student at recess, helping in areas of need in schoolwork and being a positive influence on the other child. It is kids helping kids! Both sides will benefit from this great opportunity to build character and kindness. The “Ram Buddy” is partnered with a student who has been chosen by the staff as one who might benefit from an encouraging friend.
“The system in place does not single a student out. It is set up to be just a great buddy system. We are excited to see this started at the elementary level,” said Shawn Aulbach of Valley View. “They have this going at [North Rockford Middle School] and has had great success! We had over 150 students [third through fifth grade] sign up to be a Ram Buddy, and we only had 50 to 60 needed with kids that could benefit from this connection.”
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