Shawnee Public Schools is proud to announce the installation of new “Buddy Benches” across its campuses, thanks to a partnership with Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity, 2024-25 Leadership Shawnee class, and the generous support of local sponsors. Designed to foster friendship, inclusion, and connection, these bright red benches offer a unique and welcoming space where students can find new friends and reach out to others.
The intentionally red benches stand out on each school campus, signaling a place where students can sit when they are seeking companionship or support. This initiative reflects Shawnee Public Schools’ commitment to building an inclusive and supportive community for all students.
Each Buddy Bench was made possible through the support of community sponsors who share in the vision of enhancing student connections and encouraging positive social interactions. Shawnee Public Schools extends its deepest gratitude to the following sponsors:
- Shawnee Early Childhood Center: Stuart and Clover
- Horace Mann Elementary: April Stobbe in honor of CL Craig and Shawnee Milling
- Jefferson Elementary: Bill and Nancy Ford
- Sequoyah Elementary: 6L Mechanical
- Will Rogers Elementary: Ed and Phyllis Bolt
- Shawnee Middle School: First United Bank
- Shawnee High School: Citizen Potawatomi Nation
- Jim Thorpe Academy: Citizen Potawatomi Nation
“We are grateful for the support of Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity and our generous sponsors who have made this project a reality,” said Director of Counseling and Community Engagement, Michelle Wallace. “The Buddy Benches provide a simple but powerful way to help students form connections and build friendships, creating a supportive environment across Shawnee Public Schools.”
The Buddy Bench initiative reminds students they are never alone and that friendship is always within reach.