Best Buddies International has named the Best Buddies chapters at Glasgow Middle School and Bonnie Brae Elementary School as the Outstanding Chapter of the Year for middle and elementary schools in Virginia and Washington, D.C.

“Our staff has been thoroughly impressed with the incredible work you all have done in your chapter, the school community, and beyond. From your staff and student leadership, member involvement, and engaging events, [your school] has embodied what Best Buddies stands for — inclusion for all,” the announcements to each group said.

Best Buddies is an organization that encourages those with and without disabilities to form meaningful friendships and participate in activities together. This is the first year both Glasgow and Bonnie Brae have hosted chapters.

Activities the middle school students (pictured above) have enjoyed have been gingerbread house decorating, friendship bracelet making, and playing Pictionary.

“My favorite thing about Best Buddies is that we have fun a lot,” said Brisa. Another member, Jack, said he enjoys playing games.

“Best Buddies has provided a space for all students to feel included,” said Sofie Dalton, special education teacher at Glasgow. “It has increased after-school participation for students with disabilities who are often less likely to participate than their peers without disabilities. Best Buddies is continuing to work to spread inclusion throughout Glasgow.”

Alexis McCormick and student Noelle
At Bonnie Brae, Special Education Teacher Alexis McCormick (pictured at right with Noelle) has worked closely with Assistant Principal Melissa Johnson to start the Best Buddies chapter. “It is incredible — although not surprising based on their passion and hard work — that Bonnie Brae was named Chapter of the Year,” Principal Morgan Birge said.

Some events the group at Bonnie Brae have participated in include a friendship walk, ice cream social, creating holiday cards for a local nursing home, participation in a Feet Meet, and a weekly sips and snack cart run by buddies.

“Best Buddies is very fun. I loved doing the Friday snack cart and helping other students,” said Joey, a student at Bonnie Brae. “I feel like I learned a lot,” added Carter. “It helped me be a helpful, kind person.”

Best Buddies also honored Leader of the Year Joshua Hyams from Langley High School and Outstanding Advisor of the Year (elementary) Michelle Small from Vienna Elementary School.

Link to original article: https://www.fcps.edu/news/fcps-schools-recognized-being-best-best-buddies
Link to article on Glasgow Middle School: https://glasgowms.fcps.edu/features/glasgow-middle-school-recognized-being-best-best-buddies