After experiencing the success of our fifth grade–senior buddy program, it only seems natural to take this concept a step further. TGS Athletic Director and Director of Wellness Angela Earnhart had been considering the idea for organized Middle School–Upper School student mentorship for two years, as part of our overall wellness program. With a new, permanent head of school and the existing buddy program already in place, the time is now right to launch a new initiative.
"My goals are to help create more opportunity for sophomores and juniors to be leaders before their senior year and to help Middle School students feel included on campus and have their academic, social, and personal development supported by a respected older peer."
The existing 5th grade–senior buddy program provides our youngest students with some extra courage, friendly, familiar, older faces on campus, and fun; gives our seniors opportunities to “be a kid” amidst the stresses of college applications; and builds learning connections. The new mentorship program for grades 6, 7, 8, 10, and 11 takes the buddy concept more in-depth, to focus on mentorship.
“This program will foster positive friendships across campus and strengthen the bridge between Middle and Upper School,” Coach Earnhart said. “My goals are to help create more opportunity for sophomores and juniors to be leaders before their senior year and to help Middle School students feel included on campus and have their academic, social, and personal development supported by a respected older peer.”
Over the summer, Coach Earnhart invited Upper School teachers from a variety of departments to nominate sophomores and juniors as candidates to be mentors. She formed a group of ten students, who are now going through three weeks of mentor training, including covering questions they may not have thought of: “What if you and your student have different interests?” “How do you become a supportive friend to someone you may not normally spend time with?”
After the training, the mentors will be paired with Middle School students and the full group will participate in four weeks of organized events for the buddies during Friday Explorations. After the four weeks, the buddies will meet up for a variety of events scattered throughout the school year, and mentors will support their buddies by attending performances, sporting events, ceremonies, and other activities.
Students in grades 6, 7, and 8 may request to be paired with a mentor in a number of ways: faculty and staff may nominate students; students may nominate themselves; and parents or guardians may request that their student be paired with a mentor. If you are interested, please contact Coach Earnhart at aearnhart@gregoryschool.org.
