Be the Change

At the end of last school week our school had the opportunity to participate in 3 Challenge Days. Challenge Day is an organization that has been featured on Oprah and experienced by schools worldwide. As stated on their website : Our 6 1/2-hour Challenge Day program is designed for 100 students. Our program is created to build connection and empathy, and to fulfill our vision that every child lives in a world where they feel safe, loved, and celebrated. Most schools only get to experience Challenge Day for one day and only 100 of their students get to participate. We were able to have it for 3 days, and all 300 of our students were able to participate, as well as all staff who wanted to.
I went on Wednesday and it was a great experience. I really felt that the students were able to break down the perceptions that they had of one another and start to accept one another for who they are. At the start of the day we were involved in a lot of games to break down barriers. Let me say that I have not been that close and personal with my students ever. Some of the games involved lap sitting (on students or teacher's laps), hugging tag, and the booty dance. Once our barrier's were down, things got serious. In small groups we let people know "If you really knew me, you'd know. . ." The most powerful part of the day came after lunch. This is when crossed the line. We did this to phrases like "If someone you love has ever physically hurt you, cross the line." This really allowed the students to see that they are not alone in their experiences.
After the day was over there were very few dry eyes in the room. The students have really had a change of heart since the experience. There are fewer unkind words said, and more acceptance. I have also found myself more calm, and less likely to get upset or frustrated with my students. It was an awesome experience that I wish everyone could experience.
Here is a video of another school's experience that will give you a better of idea of what it is all about: