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Challenge Day an admirable undertaking
Staff Report
Published October 27, 2009
The goals of the nationally known Challenge Day Program currently in progress in the Paris Independent School District are admirable, and from speaking with one of the leaders following the program’s first workshop at Paris High School, student reaction seems to be positive.
“We saw a lot of connections being made today — absolutely,” team leader Christopher Foster of Concord, Calif. said Monday afternoon. “Students here are receptive and the adult facilitators serve as excellent role models.”
More than 300 students in grades eight through 12 facilitated by 75 community leaders are participating in day-long workshops designed to break down barriers and promote a school and community environment based on understanding, acceptance and love.
The goals of the program are to reduce teasing, stereotyping, social oppression and bullying as well as to teach tools for peaceful conflict resolution. Through a series of activities, workshop leaders are focused on teaching students skills necessary for healthy emotional expression in an effort to increase student self-esteem, sense of purpose and integrity. The big picture focuses on building empathy and a sense of community on campus.
In studies conducted by the Challenge Day Program following other similar workshops in the program’s decade-long history, Challenge Day officials report that students are more accepting of one another; there is less teasing; students ask others for feedback more readily and are comfortable being leaders.
The Diversity Task Force of Paris should be commended for bringing this program to Paris. And, the United Way of Paris and Lamar County should be recognized for its support in funding the program.
We join with Mary Clark, co-chairperson of the Diversity Task Force, in her excitement about the program being a “catalyst for positive change in the school and in the community.”
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