Our big and little "Buddy" program between the preschool/kindergarten, elementary and upper school, builds community, communication and practical life skills. It encourages peer modeling, good citizenship and the students form lasting, meaningful relationships.
Buddy Program Stories
Growing Up Together: MMS Mentoring Program Matures
The Mount Madonna School (MMS) graduating class of 2013 and the current third grade class have a special story to tell together. They are the first two classes who have maintained a mentoring relationship across divisions for three consecutive years. Read on....
- Growing Up in Santa Cruz, Teacher’s Desk, “Empowering Youth and Addressing Bullying” by Jessica Zovar
- Collaborative Innovation: Buddy Classes Construct Outdoor Shelters
- Aptos Times, Live Earth Farm: Learning Where Food Comes From
- Connection, 2020-21
- Where Food Comes From: Kindergarten and Second Grade’s Farm Lessons
Quotes from parents
Tonight I had yet another reminder of why MMS is so special. After the middle school volleyball game I went to Harbor High for the high school game. There were two alumni there. I got big hugs and smiles from them. And who am I? A mom of a kid NINE years younger than them.
Do you remember the parents of a 3rd grade kid from when you were a senior in HS? No? Me either! The big buddies program is incredible. That bond is strong.
We have something special at our school.
--Robyn, Parent of Ben, Class of 2022
