Long Beach Students Host Challenge Day

Long Beach Middle School students and staff members recently experienced the positive power of change during Challenge Day, led by presenters from the “Be the Change” organization.

With October being National Bullying Prevention Month, it was a fitting time for the program’s emphasis on acceptance, respect, kindness and connection.

Led by “Be the Change” representatives Chris Heinze and Evert Villasenor, Challenge Day was held on a different day for each grade level. According to the organization, “Our program is created to build connection and empathy, and to fulfill our vision that every child lives in a world where they feel safe, loved, and celebrated.”

Students learned both about themselves and their classmates during Challenge Day’s interactive periods, resulting in an understanding that nobody is alone. After a full morning and afternoon of workshops, each grade’s Challenge Day concluded by asking students and staff participants to practice giving one another compliments, share what they are proud of about themselves, and discuss what they will do differently moving forward.

“Challenge Day is such a powerful experience where students can share a piece of themselves in a safe environment,” said Long Beach Middle School Principal Dr. Michele Natali. “It is an opportunity for the adults in the building to see the whole child and for students to see the adults with a new set of eyes. Students realize that they themselves are agents of change to stop bullying, and that they can create the school of their dreams that encourages acceptance and respect.”

While academics are a strong area of focus, the district is also committed to social and emotional learning. Programs such as this support initiatives to help students build and maintain qualities of good character as they become well-rounded young adults.

Submitted by Long Beach Schools