MONTICELLO, Ga. - Piedmont Academy introduced a new tradition Sept. 8 with the “Senior Buddies” program. The program pairs a senior with each K3/K4 student, each kindergarten student, and each first grade student.

The seniors then regularly visit with their “Cougar Cubs” either in the mornings during academic class time or in the afternoons at recess time. From reading books and solving math problems, celebrating birthdays and attending parties, to pushing swings and hanging out, these seniors take this program very seriously, and they are amazing with their cubs.

The senior class members sponsored a Cougar Cub Breakfast as the kickoff event for the 2017-2018 “Senior Buddies” program. The spread provided was exceptional and diverse ranging from sausage, egg, & cheese casserole to Pop Tarts. The cubs had an amazing experience. The Kindergarten Class blessed the food with a blessing chosen by Paisley Deck, and the seniors helped their cubs prepare their plates. Breakfast was delicious, and the conversations were exciting and entertaining and interspersed with group photos and selfies.

KinderCougar, Walker Peden, said the best thing about the Cougar Cub Breakfast was that he got to sit beside his buddy.

Matthew Cumbie, a first grader, responded, “Pretty much the gummies.” Although he also pointed out he likes his big buddy.

Admissions director, Mrs. Allison Hildebrant thought the event was exceptional. She is excited to see how much more will grow from such a simple program. Through this program, the Cougar Cubs get the cool factor that comes from associating with “the top dogs in the school”, and the seniors get a sense of responsibility. “These buddy relationships could turn into lifelong friendships.”

Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Julie Tucker, is excited about this program and was highly complimentary.

“The Senior/Cougar Cub Breakfast was a wonderful experience for both the older students and the younger students,” she said. “The seniors were so kind and loving to the young children. I think all the children found it rewarding and could possibly form friendships that could last a lifetime. The Piedmont seniors are terrific role models.”  

Mrs. Lindsay Moore, first year senior advisor, was also impressed.

“’Senior Buddies’ is the brainchild of the senior class. When I began working to get this program off the ground, I had no idea it would take off at such a remarkable rate,” she said. “I credit the senior class with this phenomenon. These young men and young women are amazing. They are thoughtful and caring and loving, and they are tremendous role models for our young Cougar Cubs. I’m excited to see where this will lead.”