First District in New York State to Offer Best Buddies in All Schools
Pittsford Central School Districts has been participating in Best Buddies since 2016. Now, it is the first school district in New York State to offer this student activity in every single one of our schools. Best Buddies is an international nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for meaningful one-to-one friendships and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
“We have had a couple of disrupted years so we are excited to bring these clubs to all nine schools this year to promote inclusion and friendships!” said Elizabeth Woods, Director of Special Education.
For those with IDD, Best Buddies helps create an inclusive school environment for students early on in their educational journey, and carries on into high school at a time of heightened social and emotional development that can be difficult even for teenagers without IDD. This program also helps grow leadership skills, a better understanding of people with IDD, and helps break through social barriers during an important time in a young person’s life. Last year, students at PCSD participated in Best Buddies through activities such as the Unified Basketball Game, Friendship Walk, and the Spread the Word to End the Word Campaign.
Students interested in joining Best Buddies can contact the club advisors at their schools. Please visit the Equity and Inclusivity webpage to learn more about our ongoing initiatives, and sign up to be part of the Inclusive School Week (December 5-9) planning committee with the Pittsford PTSA SEPTA and DEI committees.