D228 Students Enjoy annual Snowball Weekend

A group of students from all four D228 schools recently traveled to Camp Manitoqua in Frankfort, Illinois to embark upon their annual Operation Snowball weekend! Operation Snowball is an international alcohol, tobacco, and drug free prevention program focusing on leadership development to empower youth to lead drug-free lives. Snowball originates from the idea that “if I have a positive impact on you, you can have a positive impact on someone else and the effect snowballs.” The event began on Thursday evening and ended on Saturday afternoon. Students heard speakers discuss a range of topics from self-empowerment to suicide prevention, and drug and alcohol prevention. Seventy students participated overall. "I believe the retreat is at the heart of what Snowball represents. Once a student is able to experience this yearly event, they begin to shift negative feelings or uncertainties into more positive outlooks on life. Many students learn to harness self-awareness and embrace their own self-empowerment. Several former alumni return each year to serve as either adult staff or support staff in order to pay it forward and continue to serve our district program," said Mrs. Jenny Reid, BHS Snowball Sponsor and 228 Co-Director. Participants also enjoyed a No-Talent Talent Show and a dance/movie as just a few of their activities. The retreat was a fun and educational experience for all!