Story perspectives

Fourth Graders and Preschoolers Forge Lasting Reading Bonds

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Julia Peterson, teacher of fourth graders at Fletcher Elementary School, and Andrea Kelemen, UPK teacher, lead Book Buddies, pairing fourth graders with UPK students for weekly reading sessions.
The arrangement has improved preschoolers' attention spans and boosted reading skills and confidence for fourth graders.
Peterson notes the students have formed genuine friendships and seek each other in hallways.
Teachers hope the bond will continue to strengthen in the future.

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Story summary

Julia Peterson, teacher of fourth graders at Fletcher Elementary School, and Andrea Kelemen, UPK teacher, lead Book Buddies, pairing fourth graders with UPK students for weekly reading sessions.
The arrangement has improved preschoolers' attention spans and boosted reading skills and confidence for fourth graders.
Peterson notes the students have formed genuine friendships and seek each other in hallways.
Teachers hope the bond will continue to strengthen in the future.