Challenge Day took place on Thurs. Jan. 22 from 7:45-2:30. Assistant Principal of Activities Molly Saddler was instrumental in organizing the day.
Saddler had gathered 65 students together to have them experience what Challenge Day is all about.
“Challenge Day was an emotionally draining but uplifting event. Students were able to see the similarities with thier peers and make connections they probably would not have without this experience,” Saddler said.
The main purpose for a event like this was to have students experience what change could feel like.
“The Challenge Day mission was to revive youth and their communities with programs that demonstarte love and connection through celebration of diversity. The day was to inspire students to be positive models in our school,” Saddler said.
Challenge Day taught students that they may be different on the outside, but they all have value and commonalities.
“Despite academic, social economic or culture, we are very similar people who go through challenges. We all encounter challenges we can use each other to learn or for encouragement,” Saddler said.
Part of the program was explaining that making a difference can be difficult when you are the only one willing to make a change, but this one rule can help jumpstart positive change in the right direction.
“Do not judge a book by its cover, but by its contents,” Saddler explained. “It is important to get to know people before labeling them.”
Challenge Day brought out the uniqueness of each student and helped them to understand themselves.
“Challenge Day really inspired me to make a difference and I also just want to be a positive influence in other’s lives,” sophomore Charis Parker said.
Since Parker attended Challenge Day, she has taken a stand to make a change in the world.
“[I will make a change in the world by] using my struggles and triumphs to be an example to others and simply putting a stop to bullying,” Parker said. The goal of Challenge Day is not meant to be just a single day. The group met again for a lunch meeting on Thurs., Feb. 5th for a follow up to the day.