The playground at A.A. Gates Elementary School now has a special place where friendship, kindness and inclusion can grow—a Buddy Bench dedicated in memory of longtime Port Byron kindergarten teacher Maureen Burns.

The idea for the bench came from a group of retired and current teachers whose lives were touched by Maureen's friendship, kindness and unwavering dedication to children. Together with the Port Byron kindergarten and pre-K teachers Penny Mills, Amy Bellamy, Julie Petrosino, Jennifer Roden and Mel Evans they wanted to create a lasting tribute that reflects the values she shared with generations of students throughout her 30-year career at Port Byron Central School District.

A Buddy Bench is designed to help children feel included and connected. When a student sits on the bench, it signals that they are looking for a friend or someone to play with. Other children are encouraged to notice and invite them into activities, helping to foster friendship, compassion and a welcoming school environment. To support the Buddy Bench movement, a group of retired and current teachers are contributing toward the purchase of the book, The Buddy Bench, by Patty Brozo for elementray students.

For those who knew Maureen, the Buddy Bench is a fitting tribute.

"Maureen was more than a colleague—she was a friend, a light and a beautiful soul who touched so many lives," said kindergarten teacher Penny Mills. "Her kindness, warmth and gentle spirit will never be forgotten."

Both of Mills’ daughters were fortunate to have Maureen as their kindergarten teacher. When Maureen retired, Mills moved into her classroom.

"Every day, I feel her presence there—the way the room holds joy and the love of learning she passed on to so many little hearts," Mills said. 

Throughout her three decades at A.A. Gates, Maureen exemplified the very best of education. She greeted students with a warm smile, a positive attitude and an extraordinary ability to make every child feel valued and successful. Her classroom was a place where young learners felt safe, encouraged and loved.

She was admired not only for her excellence as an educator, but also for her generosity, professionalism and friendships that lasted a lifetime. Even after retirement, she maintained connections with many of her former students, continuing to celebrate their accomplishments and milestones.

The new Buddy Bench will serve as a daily reminder of Maureen's legacy. Just as she spent her career helping children feel seen, welcomed and cared for, the bench will encourage students to reach out to one another with kindness and friendship.