On Thursday, October 1, students in Mrs. Conway and Mr. Clark's life skills elective course at Farmingdale High School participated in their first Book Buddies visit in collaboration with the R.E.A.L. Harmony club. Spearheaded by senior Xilef Pena to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, this new initiative brings students together to promote inclusion, expand diversity awareness, and build meaningful peer connections.

During the inaugural session, participants read classic childhood stories celebrating Hispanic culture and language while working together on themed coloring activities. Life skills students practiced hosting guests and leading conversations, while club members learned to use iPads and assistive technology devices to communicate seamlessly across differing abilities.

"This was such a cool opportunity to teach about Hispanic Heritage Month and make new friends with different abilities," Pena said. "I didn't realize how much technology is available for helping people with disabilities communicate. I had whole conversations through iPads, and I'm excited to do this again each month!"

Life skills teacher Mr. Clark praised the collaboration, noting that the R.E.A.L. Harmony club brought remarkable compassion and enthusiasm to the classroom. Participating seniors from the R.E.A.L. Harmony club included Samaria Collier, Anthony Badler, Rohan Munjal, Emily Choquangsam, and Elizabeth Ferreira.

This program will include monthly visits featuring themed book readings and activities to foster community.