Your Saint Mary Story – You’ve Got a Friend in Me

What is YOUR Saint Mary Story?

Kristy shares her thoughts on the longstanding, oh-so-special Buddy Program.

The Saint Mary School Buddy Program has been a special part of my children’s SMS experience. When they were in Kindergarten through Second Grade, they looked forward to spending time with their older buddies and truly looked up to them. When they reached middle school, they were just as excited to have younger buddies of their own and serve as role models for them.

It has been wonderful to watch them experience the program from both sides. Through arts and crafts, attending Mass, and sharing activities, buddies form meaningful friendships and are there for one another through both the good times and the challenging ones—offering support, encouragement, and cheers when needed.

One of the highlights of my son’s eighth grade year was when the entire eighth grade sang “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” with their second-grade buddies at the spring concert. It was a special moment for both of them and for us as parents watching them share it together. Likewise, when it was time for my daughter’s birthday at the end of 6th grade, she chose to spend it celebrating with her younger buddies at Deborah Ann’s. Moments like these and the bonds formed among students are part of what makes SMS such a special place.