Nagel After School Buddy Club
A 2025 PTO Community Grant was awarded to parents Jeri Kubicki and Tabitha Donner to help create an after school program called the Nagel Buddy Club. This club will be an extension of the Buddy Club started by Mercer Intervention Specialist Sara Heming, bringing together students from the Extended Services Classroom (ESC) after school for an engaging activity and a snack.
“All kids want to see their friends and that makes them happy, especially when the environment and activities are aligned with their desires and abilities. Our activities might be physical- led by PT or occupational, focusing on dexterity, or creative in nature.” – Jeri Kubicki
The Nagel Buddy Club will provide a routine opportunity for ESC kids to socialize and learn in an environment organized around their needs. It will also allow ESC parents to meet each other in an environment welcoming to their kids. While 5th and 6th grade ESC students will be periodically invited to Nagel to reconnect with their peers in this club, all kids at Nagel who wish to join this club are welcome.
This club may be the only social outlook for many kids in the ESC, providing an opportunity for peer-to-peer engagement in a mindful setting.
“Buddy Club offers our kids a chance to have equal access to clubs in middle school. Due to physical limitations or cognitive barriers, our kids are often left out. Buddy Club gives our kids an opportunity to be included and have an equitable educational experience in our school district.” – Tabitha Donner
Up until now Nagel did not have any clubs specifically designed for ESC students.
“When the school day ends, isolation can creep in—especially when the playdate or sleepover invites don’t come. The Buddy Club is all about acceptance, friendship, and building confidence. It’s for every kid who needs to feel included.” – Jeri Kubicki
We are proud to support our front-line educators that empower and impact students on a daily basis. Your donations directly impact hundreds of FHSD students each year through programs like Nagel Buddy Club.
The Foundation connects students to resources designed to help them prepare for the college of their choice.
College Essay Writing Workshop
Registration is now open for the 2025 College Essay Writing Workshop.
Friday, June 6th
Nagel Middle School
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
FHFE and Riverbend Education Solutions, LLC are providing an opportunity for rising high school seniors to attend a four-hour workshop devoted to brainstorming essay topics and developing relevant essay structure. The goal of the workshop is for each student to leave with either a solid outline or first draft of a main personal statement and have the tools to develop more. The workshop is held in June and current Anderson HS and Turpin HS rising seniors can register in the Spring.
