Breakfast with Buddies Brings Together South 2nd Graders, Families

Ozark South Elementary second-grader Sterling Saylor and his mom, Katie, sit down at the classroom table with their paper plates, shaped like an apple and a pencil, full of bacon and fresh fruit. They start coloring a bookmark together, laughing and taking pictures with other students. Katie said eating breakfast with her son and his friends was the perfect way to start her Friday. 

“This is fantastic,” she said. “I really enjoy getting to be here and hanging out with all the other kids. It’s great to get to know other parents, as well.”

Sept. 12 was the first Breakfast with Buddies in Terri Beeman’s second-grade class. She plans to host it monthly in an effort to bring more connection between families. 

“Breakfast with Buddies is special because it is more than just a meal — it's a moment,” she said. “For kids, sitting down to eat with a parent, grandparent, family member, friend, or buddy before the school day starts feels like a hug that lasts all morning. It tells the students, ‘You matter. I'm here for you. I'm proud to be part of your world.’ That little boost of love and attention can make a child walk into their day taller, more confident, and ready to learn.”

Beeman knows not every parent has the opportunity to stop by the school for breakfast once a month, so she is also working to make sure there are extra “buddies.” Ensuring every student has an adult to eat and hang out with is an important part of the initiative.

“I want students to be reminded that school isn't just about books and tests. It's a community where their family belongs, too,” she said. “When students see their loved ones at school, it builds pride and a sense of belonging that sticks with them. Breakfast with Buddies shows the kids that the most important people in their lives are rooting for them every step of the way.”

Beeman also hopes the monthly event will allow families to slow down a bit and appreciate the little things. 

“I want them to see this as an opportunity to press the pause button on the busy morning time and simply be present and spend time with their child,” she said. “Breakfast with Buddies will allow families to create memories that stick long after the morning is over. Their child will remember that they showed up, sat beside them, and made their school day feel important.”