Date: April 2026

School: Idaho Arts Charter School

Wish Delivered: Buddy Benches

Teacher Erin Bass says "A Buddy Bench provides a safe, nonverbal way for students to ask for companionship, helping to reduce anxiety and normalize help-seeking behavior. Having two benches reinforces that this support is school-wide and consistently available to all students. I have seen Buddy Benches successfully used at my previous school, and students truly responded positively to them. The impact extends to all students. Those who sit on the bench gain confidence and a sense of belonging, while those who respond have opportunities to practice empathy, kindness, and leadership. My fifth graders are eager to lead by example for our younger students and are hoping to have two 60” sand-colored Buddy Benches installed on our playground by March 6, 2026. This timeline would allow them to introduce the concept to younger students while continuing to use the benches themselves. Over time, this shared responsibility strengthens peer relationships, reduces playground conflicts, and helps build a more inclusive and positive school culture."

Wish Amount: $1,927

Date: April 2026

School: Mary McPherson Elementary School

Wish Delivered: Classroom supplies

Teacher Courtney Weaver says "This TV and Cart will address the visibility issues that my unique computer lab shape and class sizes that make it difficult for over half of my students to see. It will improve engagement and reduce instruction time so that we make the best use of our already limited time in the computer lab."

Wish Amount: $409.79

Date: April 2026

School: Canyon Springs High School

Wish Delivered: Clear Backpacks

Teacher Luci Roberson says "Our school requires students to use a clear backpack. Majority of our students cannot afford to purchase these on their own so we like to be able to provide them. Our school does not get a big budget and we do not have the money to be able to buy the backpacks on our own."

Wish Amount: $2,050

Date: April 2026

School: Idaho Arts Charter School

Wish Delivered: Buddy Benches

Teacher Erin Bass says "A Buddy Bench provides a safe, nonverbal way for students to ask for companionship, helping to reduce anxiety and normalize help-seeking behavior. Having two benches reinforces that this support is school-wide and consistently available to all students. I have seen Buddy Benches successfully used at my previous school, and students truly responded positively to them. The impact extends to all students. Those who sit on the bench gain confidence and a sense of belonging, while those who respond have opportunities to practice empathy, kindness, and leadership. My fifth graders are eager to lead by example for our younger students and are hoping to have two 60” sand-colored Buddy Benches installed on our playground by March 6, 2026. This timeline would allow them to introduce the concept to younger students while continuing to use the benches themselves. Over time, this shared responsibility strengthens peer relationships, reduces playground conflicts, and helps build a more inclusive and positive school culture."

Wish Amount: $1,927