Dakota High School students and advisers showcase Best Buddies peer program at board meeting

Students and advisers from Dakota High School spoke to the board March 3 to showcase the school’s Best Buddies chapter, a peer-to-peer program that pairs general-education students with peers who have intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The student presenters described the program’s one-to-one friendship matches, monthly events (including a friendship dance, talent show, track-and-field day, movie night and visits to Blake’s Apple Orchard), fundraising through merchandise and a coffee cart, and outreach that invites other schools and college chapters to participate. Advisers named in the presentation were Amber Chesnick and Kristen Hout; Tara Cook, Director of Special Services, introduced the recognition.

Students and parents described social, emotional and community benefits. One parent said the program broadened her son’s circle of friends beyond very small special-education classes and increased inclusion across the building. Student speakers said Best Buddies helped them develop leadership skills, empathy and confidence; students described activities they lead and events they run.

Board members thanked the students and advisers and emphasized the program’s role in creating an inclusive school culture. The board asked students to join them for photos and praised the program’s contribution to student socialization and family engagement.