KMS Student & Teacher Honored by Best Buddies

Along with Kennett Middle School (KMS) student, Mark Weiss, Autistic Support Teacher, Ashley Long, was nominated and named 2023 Best Buddies Champion of the Year in Pennsylvania. This nomination recognizes her outstanding dedication to promoting inclusion and creating meaningful friendships for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Best Buddies is an organization that fosters one-to-one friendships between people with and without IDD. It's a cause that not only enhances social interactions but also significantly improves the quality of life and level of inclusion for a population that often faces isolation and exclusion.

Long has been an integral part of KMS' Best Buddies program since its inception three years ago, serving as the program advisor. Her passion for inclusion and advocacy has created a warm and welcoming environment for students with IDD at Kennett Middle School.

Here's a glimpse into Long's inspiring journey and her unwavering commitment to inclusion: "Our school started our Best Buddies program three years ago, and I have been so lucky to be our program advisor! I am also a certified Adaptive & Inclusive Trainer, and I love to spend my time outside of school working out and coaching. In my gym, I run a chapter of Uniquely Abled Fitness, which is an inclusive fitness program that serves teens and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities!"

Long was recognized at the Champion of the Year Gala on Thursday, November 16th, at The Drexelbrook.