A Seat for Kindness: Newport-Mesa USD Students Celebrate New Buddy Bench
A new symbol of connection and kindness is now available at Ensign Intermediate School.
The following is a press release from the Newport-Mesa Unified School District and does not reflect editorial work done by Spotlight Schools.
A new symbol of connection and kindness was unveiled at Ensign Intermediate School in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District last week as students and staff gathered to celebrate the installation of a Buddy Bench donated by Exchange Club of Newport Harbor and Patrick’s Purpose Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting kindness and inclusion on school campuses.
"The buddy bench is a symbol that is meant to promote inclusivity and kindness on campus. It is a safe space for students to sit, silently sending a message that they would love for someone to join them with company and support," said Principal Samantha Payne.
The Buddy Bench serves as a simple but meaningful signal: When a student is sitting there, they may be looking for a friend, a conversation, or someone to simply sit with them.
“The Buddy Bench is for anyone who is feeling alone or needs support,” said eighth-grade student and ASB President Piercen Giordani. “They can sit on the bench and know that a friend will be there to help.”
Kim Turner of the Patrick’s Purpose Foundation noted that this is the first Buddy Bench installed at a middle school, adding to the 17 currently located on other Newport-Mesa Unified School District campuses.
As students begin to use the Buddy Bench, Ensign recognizes that meaningful change takes more than a single initiative. The bench serves as a daily reminder of the power of small, student-to-student actions and represents one of many intentional steps the school is taking to strengthen connection, encourage empathy, and support a campus culture rooted in care and belonging. Over time, these moments of connection help lay the foundation for a stronger, more supportive school community because building a positive school culture starts with connection.
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