Over a decade ago, Mr. Murphy, a well-known and respected teacher/coach, teamed up with Ms. Kelly, an outgoing and positive teacher/assistant coach, to start a program that connects students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to other students. “We started the club because we saw that our students were missing out on interactions with other students, and we thought it would be a good experience for all,” Mr. Murphy explained. The program, called Best Buddies, helps students build meaningful friendships and connect across different worlds.
Officers play an essential role in running the club. Upperclassmen are selected for their experience and dedication. Meetings are held twice a month—once to plan events and once to carry them out. Officer Nathan Santoyo described the experience: “It took consistently showing up and helping whenever we can.” His partner officer, Santino Falco, added with a laugh, “We’ve been doing this since freshman year, so we’re kind of veterans. I’ve gotten very close with a lot of my buddies. The relationships feel really genuine.”
Meetings are lively and full of energy. Students arrive with music playing, snacks on the table, and various activities happening at once, from socializing to recording TikToks. Senior officer Yoni Santos shared his experience: “Honestly, I don’t know—I was convinced by other officers,” he said with a laugh. “I’m just an attendance officer.” Another officer, Marely, explained her motivation: “My sister was really involved with Best Buddies throughout her four years of high school. That made me want to become an officer, along with the friends we made through the club.”
Matteo Alfaro, a Sophomore, just started this year and he already loves it. “Best buddies are really fun. You get to spend time with the buddies and have fun with them.” He said with a big smile. “My favorite memory so far is probably Sebastian flexing his muscles the first time we met. That was really funny.”
Beyond creating friendships, Best Buddies emphasizes caring, loyalty, and kindness. On November 19, 2025, the West Leyden meeting provided students with special needs a fun, interactive experience. Val, a junior, said, “I really like this place because I’m making new friends. I really like the Christmas party because we watch Home Alone and Santa comes and visits.”
Officer Sonny Falco emphasized the value of consistency: “Just consistently showing up to meetings and helping whenever we can really helped us build special connections. I really like the relationship I hold with them, it’s very genuine.” Best Buddies is also meaningful for general education students, allowing friendships to grow beyond club meetings.
With dedicated officers, enthusiastic members, and supportive teachers, Best Buddies continues to thrive. Meetings allow students to have fun, build connections, and develop empathy and understanding. Mr. Murphy summed up the club’s mission: “It’s all about creating a place where everyone feels valued and included.”
Do you want to be the one to help make a difference? If so, keep an eye out for our next meeting in January or check on Instagram @lhsbestbuddies22_23. You will help create a world where everyone feels valued and respected equally!
