meet my friends…

My name is Betty, and I am 11 years old. I am a fifth-grade student at Dr. J Academy School in Baltimore, Maryland, where I was also born and raised.

One of the most meaningful friendships in my life is with Baby J. We spend a great deal of time together and enjoy going everywhere as friends. In my opinion, Baby J is the coolest person of all, and I am proud to call her my best friend.

The most memorable day of my life was the day I met Baby J at school. At the time, a student named Mona was bullying her, which was unfair and unkind. I chose to stand beside Baby J because she had the courage to stand up for herself despite the situation. That moment marked the beginning of a strong and lasting friendship.

One of my favorite things about Baby J is hearing her say, “Oh Boy!” Her expression always makes me laugh and brings a smile to my face. I am grateful for our friendship and the many happy memories we continue to create together.

My name is Mona, and I am 12 years old. I am a seventh-grade student at Dr. J Academy School in Baltimore, Maryland.

There is something I need to admit. I bullied Baby J, and I am truly sorry. At the time, I was hurting inside. After my parents divorced, we moved from Richmond, Virginia, to Baltimore in 2018. I felt angry, lonely, and confused. I didn't know how to handle my pain, so I took it out on other people.

Baby J was the only person who stood up to me. Instead of giving up on me, she chose to care about me. She told me the truth with love and helped me see that I mattered. No one had ever made me feel that important before.

Baby J didn't just change the way I treated others—she changed the way I saw myself. She taught me that kindness is stronger than anger and that love can heal a hurting heart.

I love Baby J, and I love hearing her say her favorite words, "Oh Boy!" Every time she says them, they make me smile because they remind me that someone believed in me when I couldn't believe in myself.

Because of Baby J, I am learning to become the kind, caring person I want to be.

My name is Matt, and I am 11 years old. I am a fifth-grade student at Dr. J Academy School in Baltimore, Maryland, where I also live.

Baby J reminds me a lot of my little sister because she is one of the coolest kids at school. We have a special friendship that feels more like family. I like to think of myself as the big brother she never knew she needed. Sure, I tease her and act a little bossy sometimes, but it's always because I care about her and want to make her laugh.

One of my favorite things about Baby J is her funny voice and the way she can make everyone smile. We always have a great time together, and every day brings a new reason to laugh.

I'm also lucky to spend time with Betty and Mona. The four of us have so much fun together, and those moments are some of my favorite memories at school.

I am grateful to have friends like Baby J, Betty, and Mona. They make every school day brighter, and I hope we stay close for many years to come.