In today's middle schools, students with intellectual disabilities often learn in the same building and walk the same hallways as their non-disabled peers, but they are left out of social activities. Best Buddies Middle Schools is our newest program. It is designed to improve the school environment by promoting friendships between students with developmental disabilities (Buddies) and students without disabilities (Peer Buddies).

Students involved with Best Buddies Middle Schools are part of a growing movement of volunteers with and without disabilities, dedicated to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to have a friend. Socialization is one of the simplest, but most often underestimated, solutions to the pattern of exclusion people with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, have faced for decades.

In addition to the benefit of developing new friendships, Best Buddies middle school programs also give students unique opportunities for leadership. With the support of school faculty and Best Buddies staff, students lead and direct the chapters in their schools.