South Beloit High School’s “Adopt a Senior” program fosters connection and support
Program born from the pandemic continues to connect Sobo students to faculty outside of the classroom
A tradition born out of the pandemic has continued to bring students and staff closer together at South Beloit High School. The school’s “Adopt a Senior” program, launched in August 2020, began as a way to support students whose senior year was disrupted by COVID-19 — and has since become a meaningful part of school life.
“That year the seniors were missing out on having a normal year, so we wanted to do something for the senior class,” said Emily Roer, director of the South Beloit College & Career Center. “After things went back to normal, we wanted to continue this tradition because the kids and staff love it.”
Through the program, each senior is paired with a staff member who serves as a mentor and supporter throughout the year. The pairs meet monthly to discuss life after high school, share advice, and talk about challenges and accomplishments. Meetings can be as simple as grabbing a morning coffee, sharing lunch, or exchanging small gifts such as seasonal treat baskets.
“There’s so much that happens senior year and the kids have so many decisions to make,” Roer explained. “This allows them to meet with a staff member to discuss how they are feeling, their future plans, and just life advice. It’s a way for students to build a relationship and feel supported through big life decisions.”
Roer noted that she isn’t aware of other local schools offering a similar program, making South Beloit’s initiative stand out as a unique approach to student support and mentorship.
As each new graduating class prepares for the future, the “Adopt a Senior” program continues to remind students that their community is invested in their success — not just in academics, but in life beyond high school.
