The initiative pairs sophomores, juniors, and seniors from the high school with young learners from kindergarten and first grade at the elementary school.

Led by Christine Beichner-Miller from the high school, Kristen Minarovich from first grade, and Caitlin Morales from kindergarten, the Buddies Program meets at least four times each semester. Every meeting is filled with opportunities for students to play together, learn together and work on meaningful projects that promote kindness, empathy, and mutual respect.

“Our high-schoolers serve as role models of Trojan pride and positivity,” says Beichner-Miller. “They show up for their buddies with care, compassion, and a willingness to give back. And in return, our ‘littles’ brighten the high schoolers’ days with their enthusiasm and openness to learning.”

The program has become a tradition over the past five years. Minarovich and Morales say they can truly see the excitement on the younger students’ faces when they know a Buddies Day is approaching.

Southwestern High School students are pictured with kindergartners and first graders from Southwestern Elementary School during one of the schools’ Buddies Program days during the 2024-25 school year.

For the high school students, the benefits are just as powerful. The opportunity to mentor and connect with younger students gives them a chance to lead with empathy and reflect on the values of kindness and community.

“As the Buddies Program continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: The smiles, the laughter, and the genuine connections that form when big and little Trojans unite. They are no longer just students attending the same district, but their own little family,” district officials said.