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05/31/2023
In an effort to offer one-on-one leadership and friendship programs to students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), Highlands High School started a Best Buddies Chapter this past school year. Best Buddies promotes social interactions while improving the quality of life and level of inclusion for a population that is often isolated and excluded. Through their participation, people with IDD form meaningful connections with their peers, gain self-confidence and self-esteem, and share interests, experiences and activities that many other individuals enjoy.
Throughout the year, Highlands HS Best Buddies have done activities in class, stayed after school to spend time together, partnered to do the Polar Plunge and participated in the new Unified Track and Field Team funded through the Special Olympics. This spring, over 30 of our Best Buddies ventured to Wildlife Lanes and spent a few hours practicing their friendship and leadership skills. Recently, some Best Buddies went to Wendy’s for lunch. Students ordered, managed money and socialized. Shout out to the workers at Wendy’s in Natrona Heights for their patience and speed!
The Highlands HS Best Buddies Chapter’s student advisory committee includes Jocelyn Bielak, Ashea Broadus, Kayla Colledge and Grace Fennell. Special thanks to chapter coordinator, High School autistic support teacher Faith Foster, for the photos and info!
