St. John the Baptist Catholic School is carrying on a special tradition that began 15 years ago and is staying strong! The students have had reading buddies for many years, but the Mass Buddies Program was started in 2008 by Amy Liebergen and Tara Nelson. Years ago, the kindergarteners attended once a month. At that time, the kindergarten teachers focused on preparing the class to participate in the monthly Mass. Now, by using the upper level students for modeling, the kindergarten students are able to attend Mass successfully from the beginning of the school year.
The Mass Buddy Program was designed as a way to pair a kindergartener with a sixth grader in order to attend Mass. The sixth graders pick up their buddies on their way to church and then sit with them during the Mass. This year, the seventh graders have paired up with the first graders, as well as the eighth graders pairing with the preschoolers, when they attend. This program benefits both the young students and the older grades. The middle schoolers are very proud of their leadership. When an older student is reading or singing, the young buddy will be beaming in the pew. The participation in Mass has become more reverent by the older students due to the fact that they are the models for appropriate behavior. Another great result of the program is when buddies pass each other in the hallway during the day. Both of the buddies are equally excited. The students have asked to do other activities with their Mass Buddies, because it is so meaningful across the board.
With all of these benefits, this Mass Buddy Program will undoubtedly continue to be an important part of the Mass experience at St. John the Baptist School for many years to come!
Founded in 1888, St. John the Baptist School is a Catholic school in Howard where students grow in relationship with Jesus Christ, pursue high levels of academics, and are surrounded by a community rooted in Christian values. Our staff is committed to developing the whole child by nurturing each child’s academic, emotional, spiritual and behavioral development. By partnering with parents, we aim to individualize student learning in a structured environment where students grow and succeed.
St. John the Baptist School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. John the Baptist provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually. For more information about St. John the Baptist Catholic School, visit their website at https://sjbhschool.org.
