Trucker Buddy connects students and truck drivers through letters

A special program is breaking down the stereotypes of truckers and educating students on the importance of this career. Called Trucker Buddy, this initiative pairs pupils with drivers of big rigs and has them be pen pals so truckers can receive a little encouragement while on the road and students can connect with someone in a real-world job.

Teacher Natalee Schmidt of Nebraska has been a big advocate of the Trucker Buddy program in her second-grade classroom, reports The Trucker. Every week, her students send out cards and letters to truckers in the area, and so far the effort has made a positive impact on both sides.

"Mrs. Schmidt has one portion of the room reserved exclusively for my cards and letters and other correspondence," Bob Longmeier, truck driver for Wal-Mart stores, told the news source. "I am proud to say that she makes the Trucker Buddy program a large part of the students' overall learning experience."

According to the program’s website, since 1992, Trucker Buddy has helped students improve their writing skills and teaches them about driving, mathematics and even geography. Truckers who like to be involved with their community may consider connecting with programs like this in the future.

Trucker Buddy connects students and truck drivers through letters

Tuesday, November 22nd, 2011