Biddeford Middle School (BMS) has been named the Outstanding Middle School Chapter of the Year by Best Buddies International for 2025. The award recognizes one chapter at each school level—elementary, middle, high school, and college—that best exemplifies the organization’s mission of inclusion and leadership in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The announcement was shared during a school-wide assembly students involved were presented a plaque from Best Buddies Maine Director of Mission Advancement Shay Wilcox and Program Manager Jayme Morrison. Wilcox and Morrison praised BMS for exceeding program expectations through its strong leadership, inclusive spirit, creative programming, and living out the Best Buddies mission every day.
“Biddeford Middle School didn’t just talk about friendship—you made it happen,” said Wilcox. “You built a school where everyone feels like they belong, and you’re creating a lasting impact in your community. This award celebrates your commitment to kindness, inclusion, and genuine connection.”
In a congratulatory letter from Best Buddies International, the organization commended Biddeford Middle School for standing out among more than 3,500 chapters worldwide: “Each year, our Board of Directors carefully selects chapters that embody the spirit and mission of our organization—evaluating them on friendship quality, chapter activities, engagement, communication, and community involvement. Your chapter went above and beyond in each of these areas—living out our mission in ways that are both impactful and enduring.”
Now in its third year, the BMS Best Buddies chapter meets biweekly to foster meaningful one-to-one friendships between students with and without disabilities. Through crafts, games, dances, and social activities, members build interpersonal skills and cultivate relationships that extend beyond the school day. The group also hosted a school dance fundraiser to support program materials and activities.
“Our students have embraced what it truly means to be part of an inclusive community,” said BMS Principal Scott Descoteaux. “They’ve created a space where friendships thrive and differences are celebrated. I couldn’t be prouder of their compassion, leadership, and the example they’re setting for our entire district.”
Led by dedicated advisors Colleen Doiron, Paul Burnell, Lydia Martzial, and Brianna MacEachern, the chapter’s enthusiasm has grown so strong that students who’ve “aged out” have continued their involvement by establishing a Best Buddies chapter at Biddeford High School.
“We started small, but the excitement spread quickly and every chapter meeting is truly heartwarming,” said advisor Colleen Doiron. “It’s been incredible to see so many students—both with and without disabilities—forming friendships that last. It is truly inspiring to see our Buddies connect in the hallways, during recess, at lunch, and throughout various activities outside of our chapter meetings. Our Buddies are leading the way by spreading the importance of inclusion through their actions and friendships every day at BMS! This is what Best Buddies is all about.”
Founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies International has expanded into a global movement promoting one-to-one friendships, leadership development, integrated employment, inclusive living, and family support for people with IDD. The recognition of Biddeford Middle School highlights the chapter’s exceptional dedication to that mission—proving that the power of friendship can transform not only a school but an entire community.