All levels of the Combo Program have began working this year to increase student volunteerism. The ninth-grade team decided on the Book Buddies program, a reading-based initiative that consists of freshman combo students working with elementary students to help them to find enjoyment in reading. 

The program is a joint activity with the United Way that allows the freshmen to go to Delaware Valley Elementary School and read to kindergarteners. Any Combo 9 student who was interested could participate. Assistant to the Superintendent for Federal Programs Dr. Jayson Pope, social studies teacher Mr. Nick Quaglia and English teacher Mrs. Jackie Weston helped put it together. 

The program gives both Combo and elementary students the chance to benefit from each other. 

“In addition to helping to improve the lives of others, the Combo kids have the opportunity to work on their communication skills and foster a sense of community in themselves and others,” Mrs. Weston said. “As for the kindergarteners, it provides them with fantastic role models and the opportunity to expand their love of reading.” 

The program is intended to allow the ninth graders to visit with their book buddies multiple times throughout the year. The Combo students have been working on their communication skills throughout the year to be able to work well with the kindergarteners. 

Mrs. Weston has a connection with the program and feels that it is an amazing opportunity to support the love for reading in younger ages. She values the dedication that the freshmen are willing to provide. 

“Being able to help foster a love for reading and provide young children with the opportunity to connect with some of our amazing high school students means the world to me,” Mrs. Weston said. “When I think of my students who are willing to give up their time to help others, my heart swells with pride, and when I think they may be able to encourage a young person to love reading, I am overjoyed.”