A firm commitment to helping ensure that every student feels a sense of belonging and that students and staff seek out ways to uplift each other has resulted in Waugh Chapel Elementary School being named the Maryland Elementary Chapter of the Year by Best Buddies.
Best Buddies programs help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure successful jobs, live independently, and develop self-advocacy and communication skills. The award was announced during Best Buddies’ annual Friendship Walk event on Saturday.
“Having an elementary chapter of Best Buddies has been a really rewarding experience for our school community,” Waugh Chapel Elementary School Principal Todd Stanzione said. “I am so proud of our team for forming a chapter and bringing the vision of having Best Buddies here at Waugh Chapel to life.”
Waugh Chapel was highlighted for its work to spread the message of inclusivity beyond the school and into the community. Also highlighted were the school’s strong support from teachers and administrators, and the cadre of parents to volunteer for monthly events.
“The students are very invested in what Waugh Chapel is doing,” said Amber Yates, director of programming for Best Buddies International. “They are excited to take on leadership roles, grow their skills, and get involved and that is very rewarding to see.”
Staff members Mollie Dwyer, Keely Keys, and Morgan Johnson – all special education teachers at Waugh Chapel – lead the school’s Best Buddies efforts.
Best Buddies also recognized Lexie Gamble of Arundel High School as its Student Officer of the Year and Denise Miles and Jenn Lowe of Crofton High School as its Advisors of the Year.
More information about the organization can be found at www.bestbuddies.org.
