The phrase we most often hear from students participating in Challenge Day is "life changing." Challenge Day is a character development program designed to reduce teasing, bullying and violence, increase student self-esteem, and build more coherent, compassionate school communities.
This year, over 1,300 students in all three Putnam City high schools experienced Challenge Day. In the morning, students participated in ice-breakers, soul-searching exercises and other activities to help them freely share their feelings with their peers. In the afternoon, students broke into small groups where they were encouraged to speak candidly about issues ranging from bullying and violence to intolerance and substance abuse. By the end of the day, students had an opportunity to share their experiences and make amends for hurts they may have caused each other. Many students stated a commitment to create a change in their school community and created a "Be the Change" committee. This intensive six-hour program is reinforced with follow-up activities throughout the school year. Through these activities, Challenge Day becomes more than a one-day activity. The lessons learned continue on and become part of the students way of life.
One mother reported that her daughter came home after Challenge Day and asked to talk...just talk. One mother, after being a parent volunteer in the program, called her three daughters together and asked them to share with her and with their sisters about what is going on in their hearts. Another mother said that the experience was "life changing" for her son. One young boy changed his appearance by cutting his hair, began wearing more traditional clothing, and standing up straighter and smiling. When asked by a counselor what happened, the student said, "I made a friend at Challenge Day and I realized that I am not alone." This student has greatly improved his performance and attitude in the classroom also. This program makes a big impact on students and the adult volunteers.
Challenge Day is sponsored by the Putnam City Public Schools Foundation and is the only one held in any Oklahoma school. The Putnam City Public Schools Foundation will receive the 2008 Outstanding Program Award for Local Education Foundations for the Challenge Day program. The award, which includes a plaque and $1,000, is sponsored by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, a nonprofit organization that recognizes and encourages academic excellence in Oklahoma's public schools. Recognition will take place during the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence Fall Forum on October 23rd at the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman
If you have any questions about the Challenge Day program or to find out how you can get involved, please call our office at (405)495-5200 x1205.
Posted on
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
by Caroline Gist