Each Wednesday. and Friday morning from 7:00-8:00 a.m., baseball players from Patrick & Henry Community College visit classrooms at Patrick Henry Elementary School in Martinsville. During this time, they engage with students through games, assist with classroom assignments, and build connections by talking with them as they arrive and enjoy breakfast.
"The Breakfast Buddies Program is a wonderful example of how our community can come together to make a difference in students' lives," said PHES principal Cameron Cooper. "Watching our students form genuine connections with the players has been incredible. It builds confidence, encourages positive behavior, and creates excitement for learning right from the start of the day."
The primary goal of the MCPS/P&HCC Breakfast Buddies Program is to strengthen community partnerships while supporting the social and emotional well-being of students. The program provides students with positive role models, promotes teamwork and communication, and helps create a welcoming start to the school day for PHES teachers and students. For the players, it offers valuable opportunities to develop leadership skills, foster empathy, and make a lasting impact on younger students in their community.
"We are grateful for this partnership and the positive influence it continues to have on our team and students' daily experiences," said P&HCC interim head baseball coach Mason Gary.
Here at MCPS, we're so fortunate to have such amazing, committed community partners who make our students' school experience so rich and rewarding!