NJHS Students Lead the Way with Learning Buddies Program

Building connections across grade levels is key to fostering a strong sense of community and developing future leaders. The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) students from Lundahl Middle School (LMS) have partnered with students at South Elementary for a six-week mentorship program called Learning Buddies, focused on skill-building and leadership development. This initiative not only strengthens leadership qualities in middle school students but also fosters meaningful connections with younger students, creating a bridge between schools in District 47.

Throughout the program, NJHS students have worked closely with students at South Elementary on various activities that enhance communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. "Learning Buddies helps me because I’m not the best at math, so Victoria helps me with my multiplication," said Zoe, a 4th grader at South. Zoe and Victoria, both bilingual in Ukrainian and English, are paired together as they share a common language, strengthening their connection and communication. These interactions provide elementary students with positive role models while helping middle schoolers develop responsibility and self-assurance.

Victoria, an 8th grader at Lundahl and NJHS member, reflected on the impact the program has had on her: "This program helps 7th and 8th graders in NJHS get service hours or honestly just have fun with kids and help them. We help the kids with anything the teacher may not have time to help with.” She continued, “This is my second year doing learning buddies and it’s made me become a leader and realize that I want to go into education."

This connection is helping students from different schools build trust and break down any barriers between them. “After talking to Victoria, I realized middle school isn’t as scary as I thought it was,” said Zoe. Similarly, students from Bernotas Middle School (RBMS) are engaging in a similar initiative at North Elementary. This cross-school collaboration strengthens the district-wide emphasis on leadership, connection, and mentorship.

"It’s incredible to see how these partnerships are not only helping students build leadership skills but also creating a sense of belonging and trust between students at different schools," said Rachael Alt, Principal at South Elementary. "Our younger students look forward to these visits, and our middle schoolers are stepping up as positive role models."

By bringing students together across grade levels, these partnerships cultivate a sense of community, equipping young learners with essential skills for the future. Students across District 47 are growing into confident leaders who inspire and support one another.