On December 4th, 2007, Laytonville High School had its second Challenge Day. The Freshman and Sophomore classes were invited to participate, as well as selected members from the Junior and Senior classes, the Be The Change group, and the Peer Counselors.  Because the Challenge Day program limits student participation to 100, the entire student body was unable to attend.

Healthy Start funded the day through a grant from the Department of Corrections. The day was filled with high energy games and activities and many “getting to know me” exercises.

These are the words of some of the participants, who recently wrote essays in Mrs. Kyne’s 9th and 10th grade English classes.

“The most valuable aspect would be, for me, when we crossed that line.  It made me think about the events in my life that were filling “my balloon” and making me sad.  What would help is to have at least three Challenge Days a year; one in the beginning, one in the middle and one in the end to reassure us.” -Arizona, Freshman

“Challenge Day made me think of the many times I have made a rude comment to someone and I thought it was funny but it actually hurt the other person.  I would recommend Challenge Day to all schools because it is a good way for teenagers to express their feelings toward one another.” -McKenzie, Freshman

“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.  [Gandhi.]  This means that if you want to see something change in the world you have to be the first one to step up to the plate.  In other words, if you see a stranger in the store drop something, pick it up.  If someone needs some help, give a helping hand.  It’s important because we started doing the wrong thing by not helping or caring about others and we follow each other, so if we want to make a difference, we need to be the first to stand to make a difference.” -Abbie, Freshman

“I thought it [Challenge Day] was pretty cool ‘cause people got to express how they really felt, and we didn’t have to be fake to each other.” -Ryan, Sophomore

“I think the most valuable aspect of the day was the understanding we got for each other. I definitely have more patience for other people and I think others got the same thing out of it.” -Emily, Sophomore

“I think the whole thing [Challenge Day] was worthwhile because it changed my view of people for the best.  I now consider other people’s feelings more often.  I think everyone was impacted the same way I was.” -Brett, Freshman

“It was worth going to Challenge Day.  It opened my eyes to everyone around me and how we are all very similar.  It really drew everyone together and people showed their true feelings.” -Sean, Freshman