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South Oldham Middle students and peer tutors showcase inclusive peer‑tutoring program
Summary
South Oldham Middle School staff and students described a selective peer‑tutoring program in which older students are trained as daily peer buddies to support classmates with disabilities; trustees heard student testimonials about friendships, field trips and increased inclusion.
Kendra Wittig, principal at South Oldham Middle School, introduced a showcase on Jan. 27 highlighting the school’s peer‑tutoring program and invited teacher Scout Downs and student peer tutors to explain how the program operates.
Scout Downs, the functional academic teacher who runs the program, said she restarted the peer buddy program two years ago and that participation is selective: students apply in writing, provide a teacher or administrator recommendation and interview for placement. “Students in this program help students with academic work and social skills, as well as offering genuine friendship,” Downs said.
Students described their experiences on the podium. Nicholas Newton, an eighth grader, said, “They are my best friends. They talk to me in the hallway, cafeteria, and help me in my arts and humanities classes. We laugh a lot together.” Delaney Smith, a seventh‑grade peer tutor, said the program taught her patience, perseverance and commitment and recounted receiving a hug from a student after a long break.
Downs told the board the program has expanded to seven students supported in class with 16 peer buddies this year — the largest group to date — and that peer buddies also participate in field trips, school dances and athletic events to provide ongoing friendship beyond the classroom.
Why it matters: trustees heard firsthand student testimonials about inclusive relationships and how the program helps students with disabilities build social connections and daily supports. The board offered applause and thanks to presenters; no action was required.
