The Big Brothers/Big Sisters program in the
Boothbay Region School system was established 3 years ago under the
combined direction and supervision of the guidance counselors in the
elementary school and high school. In its third year, the program has
become a huge success as there are 31 high schoolers volunteering their
time to be role models, mentors and friends to boys and girls in the
elementary school.
"Bigs" that choose to volunteer their time are
matched up with "littles" according to interests and personality as shown
through a questionnaire that both are required to fill out. Mr. Austin
(the high school guidance supervisor), Mr. Carlson (the school social
worker), Mrs. Lupton and Ms. Tonon (the elementary school guidance
supervisors), all work together to figure out agreeable matches.
After a formal introduction, high schoolers devote at least one class
period (usually during a study hall), if not more, to spending time with
their little brother or sister. During this time they play, talk, listen
and generally just be friends with them.
Once a year, the
guidance supervisors plan an outing where both "bigs" and "littles" get
the chance to spend time together outside the school campus. Past trips
have included traveling to the Portland Children's Museum and heading to
Reid State Park for a day at the beach. The time spent together, whether
at these outings or just during the weekly visits, forms memories that all
of the programs participants will forever cherish.
Student Life
Boothbay
Region High School
BRHS
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