We are especially excited to bring Rachel’s Challenge to Noxon on September 24 in partnership with Trout Creek School.

Rachel’s Challenge is a nationally recognized school-culture initiative inspired by the life and writings of Rachel Joy Scott, a victim of the Columbine High School tragedy. The program uses Rachel's story, writings, and example to demonstrate the influence our words and actions can have on other people and to encourage students to begin what Rachel described as a "chain reaction of kindness and compassion."

The programming will be age-appropriate. Younger students will participate in an interactive elementary presentation focused on using kind words, including others, making positive choices, setting goals, and continuing that chain reaction of kindness. The elementary program does not show or discuss Rachel's death or footage from the Columbine tragedy.

Older students will learn more about Rachel's story and be challenged to think about their own influence on others. Themes include looking for the best in people, choosing positive influences, speaking with kindness, showing appreciation, and recognizing that each student can make a meaningful difference in their school's culture.

Students and staff from Trout Creek School will join us for the September 24 presentations, and we will also host an evening event for parents and community members.

Most importantly, our intention is for Rachel’s Challenge to be much more than a one-day assembly. Throughout the year, we will continue reinforcing its themes through SPARK, the evolution of our Hope Squad student group. SPARK will be modeled after the Friends of Rachel student leadership approach and will provide students with ongoing opportunities to lead service, kindness, connection, and school culture activities throughout the year. Rachel's Challenge specifically describes its student leadership model as a way to sustain the momentum created by the assembly beyond the event itself.

I am excited about the opportunity this gives us to strengthen relationships, build student leadership, and continue to create a school where every student knows they are valued and belong.

Noxon Public Schools