The Eanes ISD Feb. 25 board meeting began with the board’s recognition of the district’s Best Buddies program, with participating students in attendance to speak on behalf of its achievements.

Best Buddies is an international nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that creates opportunities for friendships, integrated employment, leadership development and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, according to the organization.

Westlake High School became an official Best Buddies Chapter in May 2019, and Superintendent Tom Leonard thanked Molly May, executive director of special education, for working to make the program a reality for the district.

The program has significantly grown within EISD; according to a staff sponsor of Best Buddies, the chapter has about 50 members.

The chapter hopes to continue this growth by connecting with The University of Texas, hosting the first annual Best Buddies friendship walk and expanding to the district’s middle schools.