This Collegial Study Package is designed to support groups of teachers as they start a Buddies program or enhance an existing approach to cross-age learning and friendships. Students learn by teaching or sharing, they develop a sense of belonging, and they can practice important skills, such as reading and writing, in a meaningful way. Older students experience themselves as caring, competent, and valued, and younger students feel worthy of special attention and kindness.When an entire school commits itself to Buddies, it sends the message that relationships are important. Building a caring community is seen as a clear priority. A Buddies program can create an exciting energy in a school and have a huge impact on how it feels to be there.A 144-page Book, containing guidelines for 17 relationship-building and cooperative learning activities for older and younger students to do together. Includes step-by-step advice on getting started, creating partnerships, scheduling, a sample letter to parents, and an activity assessment checklist.