MASD continues to celebrate the power of mentorship through two thriving peer‑to‑peer programs that connect students across grade levels and buildings.
High School members of the Key Club have partnered with 4th graders at each elementary school to form monthly pen‑pal relationships. In addition to exchanging letters focused on a different positive character trait each month, the pen pals also meet face‑to‑face three times a year—in the fall, winter, and spring. These gatherings give students the chance to build real‑world connections, deepen their conversations, and bring their written exchanges to life. The program strengthens communication skills for all participants while allowing older students to serve as encouraging role models for their younger peers.
At Lyter Elementary, mentorship extends even further. Intermediate students in grades 3 and 4 have taken on the role of “Kinder Buddies,” supporting kindergarten and first grade students through monthly meet‑ups. Together, they practice early reading skills, phonemic awareness activities, and the foundations of friendship. These moments of connection help build confidence in young learners while giving older students meaningful leadership opportunities.
Both programs reflect the district’s commitment to fostering community, character, and collaboration—one relationship at a time.