'Rachel's Challenge' Event At Plainfield Schools

PLAINFIELD, IL — District 202 will host a special version of the “Rachel’s Challenge” program for parents and families at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 25 at Plainfield East High School; and Thursday, Sept. 27, at Plainfield High School – Central Campus

The free programs are sponsored by District 202, State Rep. Mark Batinick, Plainfield Township, the Plainfield Foundation for Excellence and St. Mary Immaculate School. PEHS is at 12001 S. Naperville Road, Plainfield. PHSCC is at 24120 W. Fort Beggs Drive, Plainfield.

The presentations are recommended for students in 6th grade and older. They are part of a week-long anti-bullying initiative at all seven District 202 middle schools and St. Mary’s.

The “Rachel’s Challenge” program focuses on the inspirational life and message of Rachel Joy Scott, the first student killed in the Columbine High School shooting on April 20, 1999.

“Rachel was a kindhearted young woman whose compassion for everyone around her made a significant difference in her world,” said Jennifer Orlos, District 202 Director for Middle School Administration and Personnel.

District 202 has worked with community and law enforcement partners for years to create and maintain schools where students and staff can feel safe and secure, Orlos said. The “Rachel’s Challenge” program is yet another part of that work, she said.

In fact, District 202 hosted the “Rachel’s Challenge” program in its middle schools for several years starting in 2010 before moving on to other initiatives.

“We know how powerful and impactful Rachel’s message is, especially on adolescents,” Orlos said.

The Rachel’s Challenge program, she said, will help equip students to create permanent, positive change in their schools and by extension, the community. Students learn to replace violence, bullying and negativity with respect, kindness and compassion.

“We hope that our students and families will be inspired by her example to create a wave of kindness like millions around the world have been,” Orlos said.

Photo/article via District 202