Building Skills and Relationships
School-day enrichment programs play a critical role in improving student outcomes. At JoAnna Connell, the Buddies Program pairs fourth-grade students with pre-K students for weekly sessions that build both skills and relationships. During these sessions, the older students help their younger buddies practice essential skills like tying shoes, writing names, and identifying colors, while also enjoying activities such as arts and crafts, gardening, and special events like the Halloween parade. As one fourth-grade teacher shared, “It’s just as effective for the older kids as the younger kids. The older kids want to teach and show off their skills. and the little kids take in what their buddy knows."
