During the 2007/2008 school year, Challenge Day was held at two of the three Putnam City high schools.  400 students and 100 adults who participated were a diverse group selected by teachers and counselors at the schools.  The program was so successful at these two high schools that it will be expanded to four days at each of the three high schools for the 2008/2009 school year.

After participating in Challenge Day, our students saw how things can be different in their school and their community.  Students and adults left Challenge Day inspired to make a change.  Newly-awakened students left the room inspired to seek ways to contribute to the creation of a positive school environment.

Administrators and students have seen a big difference in the atmosphere in the hallways and the classrooms.  They see more openness, friendliness, and forgiveness.  Follow-up activities are providing an opportunity for students and adults to share and make plans to keep Challenge Day ideals growing among the students.  Some of the comments made by students and adults who attended the first follow-up session were:

"It really changed the way I look at people."

"It taught me not to judge people.  You never know what they are going through."

"Every other day at lunch, I try to leave my group of friends and go sit with someone who is eating alone."

"I have been the biggest jerk and I didn't know why!  It actually felt good to understand myself and to have a chance to say I'm sorry."

"I don't feel alone anymore."