Challenge Day At Herricks

erricks Middle School students were inspired to “Be the Change” that they want to see in the world, thanks to a Challenge Day program that was presented at the school earlier this month. Students and staff members gathered for hours of team-building exercises, thought sharing, reflections and other activities.
During the course of three days, a total of 200 eighth-graders and 50 staff members representing all five of Herricks Public Schools’ buildings participated in this opportunity. They embraced the program’s philosophies and left with a new level of motivation to be leaders who stand up for respect and compassion.
Be the Change representatives Katie Healey and Sevan Poetry facilitated the workshops at Herricks Middle School and welcomed the involvement of all attendees. ”
Challenge Day addresses a number of issues that are commonly faced by teens and young adults. It emphasizes positive qualities, celebrates diversity, provides tools for the development of constructive changes and healthy self-expression, encourages service to others and much more. According to www.challengeday.org, “Our programs go beyond traditional anti-bullying efforts, building empathy and igniting a movement of compassion and positive change, known as the “Be the Change Movement.”
“I thought it was really helpful,” said eighth-grader Ritu Shah. “Everyone got to be together as a whole, like a family.”
“I think we will all see each other in a new light,” added Aayush Bagul. “A lot of people made friends.”