Preparing Teachers, Changing Lives

For many, student teaching is an opportunity to put classroom lessons into practice. For elementary education graduate Margo Paluch, B.S.Ed. ’26, it became an opportunity to change a school community. With at least four semesters of faculty-guided field experience to gain hands-on learning and training, Baylor Moody School of Education students begin their teaching careers highly qualified and prepared to lead. 

As a third-grade student teacher at Hewitt Elementary School just outside Waco, Paluch spent a day substituting in a self-contained special education classroom. That experience sparked an idea informed by her personal experience to create an opportunity for her third graders and the special education class to connect through friendship.

“Growing up alongside my older brother, who has profound autism, shaped my understanding of inclusion from an early age,” says Paluch. “I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to share that passion with my students.”

This passion shaped the Best Buddies program, which partnered her third graders with their special education peers for interaction during recess. The pilot program quickly became transformational and something her students looked forward to each week.

“I couldn’t be prouder of my third graders for stepping up as leaders, showing kindness and building genuine friendships. They are showing what true friendship looks like through their actions, even when their buddy may not communicate with words,” says Paluch. “I feel so hopeful for our future because of these kids. I truly believe they are going to make our world a better place for people with disabilities.”

 Even after Paluch has graduated, the Best Buddies program will remain a staple next year at Hewitt Elementary.

“Even as a Baylor teaching candidate, Miss Paluch felt comfortable asking her teacher and me to start something new on our campus with a goal to help create meaningful opportunities for inclusion and peer relationships,” said Christy Watley, B.S.Ed. ’03, the school’s principal and former special education teacher. 

Paluch’s initiative reflects the confidence that Baylor education majors gain through extensive fieldwork before graduation.

In the coming school year, Paluch will head to Stuber Elementary in Prosper ISD (north of Dallas), where she will teach fourth grade reading and social studies.

“I’ve loved how the Moody School of Education feels like such a family. I’ve been well supported my whole time here,” reflects Paluch. “It’s helped me grow into a teacher who values relationships and making every student feel seen.”