Baylor student creates lasting buddy program at local elementary school
When Margo Paluch (BSED ’26) walks across the stage this weekend during Baylor Commencement, the senior elementary education major from Lake Geneva, Wisc., will experience a historic first as a member of the inaugural graduating class of Baylor’s newly named Moody School of Education. But she will also carry another first very close to her heart.
As a third-grade student teacher at Hewitt Elementary School just outside Waco, Paluch spent a day substituting in a self-contained special education classroom. That experience sparked an idea — a deeply personal one — about creating opportunities for her third graders to include others, be kind, and form friendships.
“Growing up alongside my older brother, who has profound autism, shaped my understanding of inclusion from an early age,” says Paluch. “I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to share that passion with my students.”
Thus began her “passion project” — a Best Buddies program partnering her third graders with their special education peers for interaction during recess. The pilot program quickly became transformational, and something her students looked forward to each week.
“I couldn’t be prouder of my third graders for stepping up as leaders, showing kindness and building genuine friendships. They are showing what true friendship looks like through their actions, even when their buddy may not communicate with words,” says Paluch. “I feel so hopeful for our future because of these kids. I truly believe they are going to make our world a better place for people with disabilities.”
It’s one thing for a student teacher to create a program. It’s another thing for it to become a staple at a school after that student teacher graduates. The great news is that Margo’s Best Buddies program made such as impact that Hewitt Elementary will continue the program next year, and that brings joy to the heart of the school’s principal (and former special education teacher) Christy Watley (BSED ’03).
“Even as a Baylor Teaching Candidate, Miss Paluch felt comfortable asking her teacher and me to start something new on our campus with a goal to help create meaningful opportunities for inclusion and peer relationships,” Watley says. “The biggest blessing was witnessing the pure excitement of our third-grade students as they went to the classroom to pick up their buddies, and the smiles they had as they walked outside together.”
As Paluch prepares to graduate and bid farewell to her Hewitt students, she will head to Stuber Elementary in Prosper ISD (north of Dallas), teaching fourth grade reading and social studies and carrying with her all she has learned at Baylor.
“I’ve loved how the Moody School of Education feels like such a family. I’ve been well supported my whole time here,” reflects Paluch. “It’s helped me grow into a teacher who values relationships and making every student feel seen.”
Sic ’em, Margo!