Books Bring Students Together Through North Babylon’s Reading Buddies Program

NORTH BABYLON, NY — The North Babylon School District’s Reading Buddies after-school club is strengthening students’ love of literacy while building meaningful connections across grade levels.

Once a month, students from Robert Moses Middle School visit William E. DeLuca Elementary School to read aloud to their “little buddies,” creating an engaging and supportive environment centered on books. Before each visit, middle school participants carefully select stories and practice reading fluently to ensure an enjoyable experience for their younger partners.

The program helps middle school students build confidence, strengthen reading skills, and develop leadership qualities as positive role models. Elementary students benefit by listening to fluent readers, interacting with older peers, and fostering an early appreciation for reading in a fun and welcoming setting.

Members of the Reading Buddies club visited Mary Clare McGroary’s class at William E. DeLuca Elementary School on Dec. 17, continuing the program’s rewarding tradition and highlighting the power of reading to connect students of all ages.