On Opening Day of 6th grade, 6th graders “receive” a 1st grade buddy during the Sunflower Ceremony, at which1st graders are welcomed into the school. Rising 6th graders eagerly anticipate becoming a buddy, a mark of recognition that they are now an “elder” of sorts! Weekly walks, pairing for pumpkin gathering and carving, and special moments at recess are but some ways the relationship between the buddies develops over their three-year period together.