What is the Thunderbuds Program all About??

This program was initiated to help those students new to Ross Sheppard, feel at home here.

The “Thunderbuds” are students at Ross Sheppard who are linked to  “buddies” at junior high schools

The “Buddies” are those students currently in grade nine who have selected Ross Sheppard as their high school of choice for the 2006/07 school year. Each Thunderbud will have approximately 12-20 buddies.

The Thunderbuds  meet during the months of April and May to learn skills that will be helpful in their role and to receive information concerning the buddies that they will need to contact. The Thunderbuds will contact each buddy on their list and invite them to the Thunderbird Welcome Evening in June.

The Thunderbuds will also help their “buddies” through the enrolment procedure in August, and give them any support they need throughout their grade ten year.

 

Importance of the Program:

 

To help students feel more comfortable with their transition from junior to senior high.

To help parents feel more comfortable about having their son/daughter enrolled at our school

To give Ross Sheppard students the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of other students

To develop leadership skills in Ross Sheppard students

Creates a link between junior and senior high which fosters respect and understanding

 

How can students become involved with this program?

 

Come to the meetings which begin in March  and continue throughout April and May

Fill out an application form and hand it into Ms. Yates-Millions

Attend the training sessions and be available for the  Thunderbird Welcome Evening, and the grade ten registration day at the end of August.

 

What will be the total student commitment for this program?

 

Meetings weekly after the initial meeting in March. Day and time to be determined

Contact approximately 15-20  students to invite them and their parents to the Thunderbird Welcome Evening

Organize the Thunderbird Welcome Evening which occurs on June 1st, 2006.

Hosts/Hostesses for their buddy group at the Thunderbird Welcome Evening (6:30 – 9:00 p.m.)

Help their buddies register for grade ten at the end of August

Attend one follow up meeting in September of 2006.

Be a support person for their buddies as they continue through their grade ten year, as requested.

 

Benefits to the Thunderbuds for their involvement in the program:

 

You will be a positive role model for a new grade ten student and help them feel comfortable at our school

You will be able to register for before all other students in the fall and Ms. Yates-Millions will personally oversee your program to ensure you have the subjects you requested.

You will be thanked formally at a pizza luncheon or barbecue in the fall.

You will receive service hours for your dedication to the program.

 

For more information about the Thunderbud Buddy Program, please contact Maureen Yates-Millions, #448-5000 Ext. 151.