Kenwood students gather around a newly installed 'buddy bench' on their playground

The Springfield City School District recently received 10 ‘buddy benches’ that were donated by the Kiwanis Club of Springfield. 

The benches have been placed on the playgrounds at each of the District’s elementary schools. The Kiwanis Club also donated a book to each school that explains that the purpose behind the benches is to encourage students to befriend someone who may be sitting on the bench.

“The District thanks our friends at the Kiwanis Club for these generous gifts and for always having a vested interest in the wellbeing of SCSD students,” said SCSD Superintendent Dr. Bob Hill. “I am optimistic that these benches are the beginning of many budding friendships between our students.” 

The benches are made from recycled materials and were produced locally at The Plastic Lumber Store in Springfield.

The Springfield Kiwanis is a local chapter of the international community service organization, Kiwanis International. The Springfield chapter has served the community for over 100 years with an overall mission to improve the lives of children.