At Dogwood Elementary School, the "Reading Buddies" program led by Mrs. Guynes and her fifth-grade class is creating waves of enthusiasm and learning across grade levels. Every second Friday of the month, Mrs. Guynes’ Grizzlies join forces with the preschoolers in a educational partnership that fosters a love for reading and enhances literacy skills.
The initiative pairs fifth graders with their younger peers to share the joys of reading. During these sessions, the older students read aloud to the preschoolers, helping them navigate through colorful picture books and engaging stories. This collaboration not only provides the young children with a supportive and interactive reading experience but also allows the fifth graders to develop their mentoring and communication skills.
For Mrs. Guynes’ Grizzlies, the role of reading buddy is both a responsibility and a rewarding experience. The fifth graders take on the role of storytellers, often preparing by selecting books that they believe will captivate their audience. They use various techniques—like expressive reading and interactive questioning—to keep the preschoolers engaged and excited about the stories.
In return, the preschoolers gain exposure to a variety of reading materials and develop early literacy skills in a fun and nurturing environment. They benefit from the one-on-one attention and encouragement provided by their older peers, which boosts their confidence and eagerness to explore books on their own.
The program also strengthens the sense of community within the school. By bringing together students from different age groups, it fosters relationships and empathy, bridging gaps between the younger and older students.
Mrs. Guynes and her students are proud of their role in shaping the future readers of Dogwood Elementary. The "Reading Buddies" program exemplifies how collaboration and mentorship can enrich the educational experience, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of reading and learning.