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Best Buddies chapters at Glasgow Middle School and Bonnie Brae Elementary School have been named Virginia and Washington, D.C.’s Outstanding Chapters of the Year in their respective school categories.

The recognition from Best Buddies International came during the first year that either Fairfax County public school hosted a chapter.

Best Buddies brings together people with and without disabilities to build friendships and participate in shared activities. In its announcements, the organization praised both schools for their leadership, member participation, engaging events and commitment to inclusion.

At Glasgow, students have decorated gingerbread houses, made friendship bracelets and played Pictionary.

“My favorite thing about Best Buddies is that we have fun a lot,” student Brisa said. Fellow member Jack said he enjoys playing games.

Special education teacher Sofie Dalton said the program has created an inclusive space and increased after-school participation among students with disabilities.

“Best Buddies is continuing to work to spread inclusion throughout Glasgow,” Dalton said.

At Bonnie Brae, special education teacher Alexis McCormick worked closely with Assistant Principal Melissa Johnson to establish the chapter.

Principal Morgan Birge said the award reflected the organizers’ passion and hard work.

Chapter members have joined a friendship walk, held an ice cream social, made holiday cards for a local nursing home and participated in a Feet Meet. Buddies also operate a weekly drinks and snack cart.

“Best Buddies is very fun. I loved doing the Friday snack cart and helping other students,” student Joey said. Carter, another student, said the experience taught him a great deal.

Best Buddies International also named Langley High School’s Joshua Hyams its Leader of the Year and Vienna Elementary School’s Michelle Small its elementary-level Outstanding Advisor of the Year.