When students at Adrian Elementary School simply need a place to rest in between games of kickball or playground time, they often choose the “Buddy Bench.” If a quick timeout is required amidst a hectic school day, when students need a brief reprieve during recess, the “Buddy Bench” is there. Because of a personal tragedy experienced by Adrian Elementary School teacher, Annie Murphy, and the sudden loss of her brother nearly two years ago, the “Buddy Bench” was donated by her parents, Dr. and Mrs. Bell as a way to put a positive twist on a sorrowful experience. The “Buddy Bench” was decoratively enhanced with the artwork of the District’s very own, award-winning elementary school art teacher, Julie Barcza, to evoke happiness, positivity and comfort. It was also painted with the name of Mrs. Murphy’s brother, Brandon Robert Bell. Today, students use the “Buddy Bench” as a place to take a momentary break, to congregate and chat and to enjoy recess camaraderie, a special outcome notwithstanding the loss of a sibling one of our very own SEL Schools family members.