Ernie Checkeris Public School launches The Buddy Bench

Ernie Checkeris Public School, which offers the French Immersion program, launched a character education initiative called the Buddy Bench / le banc d’amitié during a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, June 14, 2016. The purpose of The Buddy Bench is to help eliminate loneliness and foster friendship on the school playground.

The idea originated from an eight-year-old boy from Pennsylvania. If a student has no one to play with or feels shy to approach a group, he/she can go sit on the buddy bench. If students see someone on the buddy bench, they know to reach out to them and make them feel included.

Ernie Checkeris Public School Principal Lesley Fisher thanked teacher Kristina Taylor for spearheading the project. Students were invited to brainstorm ideas for the benches and helped to design and paint them.

“We wanted the benches to reflect Rainbow District School Board’s ongoing commitment to equity and inclusive education,” says Principal Fisher.

She adds: “The bright colours are a symbolic reminder to always be caring and supportive of one another. Students will continue to enjoy an outdoor environment where diversity is accepted and respected.”

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Media Contact:

Lesley Fisher, Principal, Ernie Checkeris Public School

Rainbow District School Board, 705-566-7610.