By Sayellor Blackstone

   Truth, Beauty and Goodness. These are the three words that comprise Tempe Prep’s core values. 

   In addition to these foundational traits, TPA cares about community. With NHS’s sixth-grade buddy program, , sixth graders are easily incorporated into the school’s community using their junior and senior buddies. “(B)uddies are very important (to give) sixth graders (a) mentor,” says NHS member, junior Tamsin Hurlbut

 The most recent buddy meeting was on Oct. 28. This Halloween-themed event, organized by buddy coordinator, senior Clark Campbell, featured a pancake breakfast and a mummy wrap. Both juniors and seniors caught up with their sixth-grade buddies and participated in the fun.      

   Through the buddies’ program, sixth graders not only feel as though they belong in the TPA community, but they receive valuable advice from juniors and seniors. These upperclassmen have likely experienced what the current sixth graders are feeling and learning and they are able to provide insights on navigating TPA classes and extracurriculars .

   For upperclassmen, NHS’s sixth-grade buddy program is a great opportunity to involve the youngest members of the campus into the school’s community, as well as to make a new friend and have the chance to be a mentor.