Deer Park High School’s English students continued the Book Buddies program by promoting reading with fifth graders from John F. Kennedy Intermediate School. The younger students chose books to peer-read with sophomores and juniors from the high school. After an initial virtual meet-and-greet, students met in person for the first time at JFK, where they discussed characters they loved, literary concepts and social-emotional lessons raised in the books.
The Book Buddies met two more times over the project, including a final meeting where the fifth graders visited Deer Park High School and had a final discussion about their books. The “Buddies” loved the project, sharing their love of choice reading and discussing the challenges of growing up. The high schoolers developed leadership skills throughout the project, leading discussions, making reading plans and identifying key concepts.
“I was impressed by my students embracing their mentor roles, demonstrating their ability to peer deeply into texts, to make authentic connections and to find value in the reading and sharing process,” 11th grade teacher Teresa Greco said.
“There is no greater academic skill than reading, and to see the passion and exuberance displayed by all of our students solidified the importance of this tremendous activity,” Deer Park High School Principal Charles Cobb said.
“This project was a great way to motivate and encourage readers, build confidence and make connections,” JFK Associate Principal Marilin Gutierrez said.
“I have been participating in the Book Buddies program for three years now, and every year the kids absolutely love it,” JFK fifth grade teacher Nina Ragone said. “The fifth graders always want to impress their partners with new ideas and they really take pride in their work.”
Date Added: 5/3/2023