'Be the Change' Necklaces at Finley Follow Challenge Day
Challenge Day packed its usual wallop at J. Taylor Finley Middle School. The event presented an opportunity for students to model the change faculty and staff members would like to see in the school. It also provided for a demonstration of positive peer support and an increase in self esteem.
Many students decided to take the initiative a little bit further by making “Be the Change Necklaces,” which were designed by eighth grader Genna Lowry. The necklace is made of guitar picks that hold the names, initials or symbols of people the wearer can count on for support, hope or inspiration. Students can add picks and offer picks of support to fellow students.
According to its website (www.challengeday.org), “Challenge Day’s vision is that every child lives in a world where they feel safe, loved and celebrated.” Challenge Day leaders encourage participants to cast aside their traditional school roles and share a part of “who they really are.”
The event features both large and small group activities. As the group plays, laughs and shares together, the social, cultural and economic differences that typically separate students are suddenly erased and everyone realizes just how similar they are.
Through the program’s exercises, students learn how many adults in their school have “survived” the same difficulties they encounter, and by believing in themselves, they can, too. Staff members learn how easy it is to connect with young people and experience a simple way to develop a bond of mutual respect.
Similar to last year, Finley students were deeply moved by this year’s Challenge Day activities. So moved, that the necklace initiative quickly took off. “About Finley 150 students have made necklaces and are wearing them to school,” guidance counselor Cathy Cain said. Joan Fretz, Huntington’s director of fine and performing arts who has spearheaded Challenge Day programs in the district, contacted Murphy’s Music store on Route 110 and the company donated 1,000 picks.
“The Peacemakers club at Finley put holes in the picks and prepared the supplies for the project,” Mrs. Cain said. “This project was a big hit and a great follow up to Challenge Day.”
Finley teachers and staff, along building administrators John Amato and Kenneth Parham have bought into Challenge Day and have helped make it the successful annual event it has become.
In the past month, Finley has provided several opportunities for students to think about the choices they make and how they can affect others and their own future.
The Arts in Education Committee sponsored two high impact programs. Seventh graders saw “The Bully Pulpit,” a live theater production that dealt with many forms of adult and student bullying, including internet bullying. Eighth graders saw “Charting Your Course,” a powerful multi-media presentation that gave students examples of what happens when you don't think about the consequences of your actions.
“Combined with the Challenge Day experience, these programs are helping to reinforce the supportive learning environment that Finley is so successful in providing its students,” Mrs. Fretz said.
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