A Buddy Bench Honors a Life, Love, and the Gift of Appreciation
At Nolan Elementary in Signal Mountain, Tennessee, students and faculty are greeted by a shiny, green Buddy Bench. What looks like a simple outdoor bench with the words “Buddy Bench” cut into the back, has a much deeper significance to the Nolan community. It is one that signifies strength, courage, kindness, and love, donated in honor of a soul that was lost far too soon.
An 18-year veteran at Nolan Elementary, Becky Leary was known for driving her third-grade students persuasive writing efforts that benefited the school each year. It was through Ms. Leary’s teachings and her student’s persistence, that the first Buddy Bench made its appearance at the school. The original bench was a standard steel bench with a banner that stated, “Buddy Bench” and featured a Knight (they are the Nolan Knights of course!) befriending a Dragon. The bench brought awareness to bullying, it encouraged conflict resolution, and encouraged students to notice what is going on around them. Over time, the weather took its toll on the banner and it became faded and unusable.
On February 8th, 2019, Becky Leary lost her loving daughter Karrah, at the young age of 32 to Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. The loss shook the community, and both faculty and students alike wanted to show support for their beloved teacher. When asked what they could do, Ms. Leary simply stated that she would want a permanent Buddy Bench, underneath a tree on the property, that is a constant reminder to love one another and to slow down and appreciate what you have. It is a true testament to Karrah’s life and memory.
“[This] is the main reason that the Buddy Bench is perfect for Nolan, to extend a hand of kindness, when our students need it the most, and to feel accepted by others. We never know what is going on in someone’s life, but if we show compassion and empathy, it will always be remembered.
Life is a gift. We are never promised tomorrow. Let each of us begin our first steps at making a positive difference in our world.” Becky Leary, Mother and Nolan Elementary Teacher
The permanent Buddy Bench now sits underneath a beautiful shaded tree on Nolan’s playground. This is a reminder to ...
“..always appreciate one another, do your best, and be kind…always.” Becky Leary
To learn more about Nolan Elementary, please visit https://nolan.hcde.org/.
The Power of a Buddy Bench
When children feel lonely or left out during recess, a buddy bench can be a haven. These specially designed school benches serve as safe spaces where students can sit when they need a friend, signaling to classmates that they're looking for companionship and kindness.
Playground buddy benches serve multiple purposes helping to:
- Reduce playground loneliness and social isolation
- Prevent bulling by encouraging peer support
- Promote kindness and empathy among students
- Build inclusive school communities where every child feels valued
Buddy benches represent more than just playground furniture—they're symbols of community and the understanding that everyone deserves friendship and inclusion. Whether honoring a loved one's memory, like at Nolan Elementary, or simply creating a more welcoming school environment, these benches have the power to transform how children interact and support one another.
UltraSite Buddy Bench Options: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your School
Looking to add a buddy bench? UltraSite offers three buddy bench models designed to meet the unique needs of different age groups and playground environments.
Here are our options:
Standard Buddy Bench: Interactive and Engaging
The classic UltraSite Buddy Bench takes playground seating to the next level with interactive design elements that encourage both friendship and learning.
Key Features:
- Available in 6' or 8' lengths
- Choice of Diamond or Perforated Game Pattern
- Integrated Tic-Tac-Toe and Chess/Checkers designs on the seat
- Thermoplastic finish on seat and back with powder-coated frame
- Multiple installation options: portable, inground, or surface mount
- 1" O.D. brace for portable frame stability
The interactive buddy bench design not only provides a space for students to find friends but also offers built-in games that can help break the ice and facilitate conversations between children.
Lexington Buddy Bench: Classic Elegance
The Lexington Buddy Bench combines durability with timeless design, perfect for schools seeking a traditional yet sturdy solution.
Key Features:
- Available in 6' or 8' lengths
- Elegant slat pattern design
- 1-1/2" thick cast aluminum frame for maximum durability
- Thermoplastic frame finish for weather resistance
- Portable and surface mount options are available
This premium buddy bench is ideal for elementary and middle schools looking for a bench that will maintain its appearance and functionality for years to come.
Preschool Buddy Bench: Perfectly Sized for Little Ones
Recognizing that younger children have different needs, the Preschool Buddy Bench is specially designed for preschool-aged children, making friendship accessible to even the smallest playground users.
Key Features:
- Compact 4' length designed for smaller spaces
- 10" high seating perfect for preschoolers
- Perforated Game Pattern with tic-tac-toe and checkers
- Thermoplastic finish with powder coated frame
- Available in portable, inground, or surface mount options
This preschool playground bench ensures that even the youngest children can participate in the buddy bench experience, fostering social skills development from an early age.
About UltraSite
UltraSite™, a PlayCore company, has been manufacturing high-quality commercial grade buddy benches and outdoor recreation products for more 15 years. Our comprehensive product line includes site furnishings, park amenities, picnic tables, park benches, dog park agility equipment, and outdoor fitness equipment designed to create welcoming, inclusive communities.
