Striking Up Friendships During "Bowling with Buddies"

The Commack Middle School’s “Best Buddies” club along with the High School’s “Best of Buds” chapter, clubs that work to break down barriers between students with and without disabilities, recently hosted the second annual "Bowling with Buddies" gala.

The event fosters a connection between middle and high school students, who come together with a common purpose; friendship. The high school students especially enjoy the chance to visit with their younger counterparts and former advisers. The activities also function as a bridge for middle school students as they prepare for their transition to the high school by providing a familiar support base to seek out upon their entry to the high school through an evening of companionship, bowling, popcorn and pizza.

Best Buddies and Best of Buds create opportunities for one-to-one friendships, and students are encouraged to participate in both small and large group social activities with their assigned buddy throughout the school year.

Recently the clubs held a campaign to "End the R-Word." Students and staff were encouraged to sign a pledge to stop the use of the derogatory word, retard(ed). The entire student body from both schools were invited to help "Spread the Word to End the Word," by signing their names to make a commitment to effect a positive change on our school culture. The students were active participants in the Special Olympics, and worked to spread Autism awareness throughout the month of April.

*Information provided by Brenda Lentsch/Commack Schools.