The Gloversville Enlarged School District is proud to highlight a transformative new initiative bridging our campuses: the Big Brother Big Sister Mentoring Program.
This program is the result of a powerful collaboration between David Wareing, Assistant Principal at Gloversville High School, and Angela Wareing, teaching assistant at Boulevard Elementary. Currently in its trial stage, the initiative is designed to create a unique support system by connecting GHS leaders with younger scholars at Boulevard.
A Message That Resonates
The heart of this program lies in the power of shared experience. Mentors are intentionally paired with younger scholars who may be navigating obstacles similar to those the high schoolers have already overcome.
As Assistant Principal David Wareing explains, the program connects scholars who have experienced specific obstacles through their personal and school life experiences to younger scholars experiencing similar issues. The goal is to give these younger scholars "a safe person to talk to that may offer a different message than adults they work with regularly". Mr. Wareing notes that the district is "hoping that a message from an older scholar may be of higher impact to each younger scholar".
More Than Just a Meeting
Once a week, our GHS mentors travel to Boulevard Elementary to provide guidance, friendship, and support. These sessions are a blend of productivity and connection, focusing on:
Academic Support: Working together to focus on grades and academic goals.
Life Skills: Navigating real-world scenarios and providing relatable advice.
Building Connection: Engaging in fun games and activities to strengthen their bond.
Community Pride: A core goal of the program is "establishing pride in both older and younger for community and school".
Looking to the Future
What began as a mid-year pilot with scholars meeting together is already showing immense promise. Watching these high school leaders' step into role-model positions has become a weekly highlight for both buildings.
The district is already "looking to expand next year" to reach even more scholars. Through this mentorship, GESD is proving that we are at our strongest when we are looking out for one another.