LAKEPORT >> Lakeport Elementary School has recently implemented the Rachel’s Challenge program. The program aims to create a school climate less susceptible to harassment, bullying and violence. The program was launched at Lakeport Elementary for grades K-3 with an assembly that emphasized the five main components of the program: Use Kind Words & Do Kind Things, Accept & Include Others, Choose Positive Influences, Set Goals and Keep a Journal. First grade teacher Jodi Mansell says, “Rachel’s Challenge is helping kids be more mindful about the way they treat each other.”
Rachel Joy Scott was one of the 13 people whose life was taken in the tragic Columbine High School Mass Shooting, but that is not the legacy that she has left the world. Many of her peers contacted her family after that terrible day to share stories of her kindness and how she impacted their lives. Her family soon realized the life-changing effect of Rachel’s story and started the non-profit Rachel’s Challenge organization.
Each month, at Lakeport Elementary, there is a focus on one of the five components. Lessons are created in the classroom around one of the focus components. Books, songs and videos also illustrate acts of kindness and compassion. “Rachel’s Challenge is awesome. We are doing a kindness game. We check off all of the things we do,” said one student. Students understand that treating others with respect is fun and should not just be what they do, but who they are.
Students are also recognizing the kind acts of others by making paper chain links detailing others’ kind deeds. Students are learning the importance of creating a chain reaction of kindness. “The kids are very excited and working hard to create a chain reaction of kindness. They love making the chains,” said first grade teacher Kristin Hiatt. There is a large paper chain, made from acts of kindness, in the school’s cafeteria. The chain helps the students to see that their kindness is recognized and rewarded.
For more information about Rachel’s Challenge at Lakeport Elementary School please contact Anita Swanson at aswanson@lakeport.k12.ca.us or (707) 262-3005. For more information on Rachel’s Challenge and how to implement it into your school, go to rachelschallenge.org.
