submitted by Moira Downes, MPS
More than 100 parents, guardians and students came to the Charles C. Winchester Auditorium on Wednesday night to see a presentation of Rachel’s Challenge.
This is a national program named for Rachel Scott, the first victim of the Columbine High School shootings. The presentation delivers a highly regarded anti-violence and anti-bullying message.
The presentation began with a video clip from the tragedy at Columbine High School in 1999, narrated by Rachel Scott’s brother, Daniel. It went on to describe the life and writings of Rachel Scott, who was 17 when she was killed, along with 12 others during the Columbine shootings.
Matt Salnick, the presenter from the Rachel’s Challenge organization, presented five challenges to the audience: To look for the best in people; to dream big; to choose positive influences; to speak with kindness; and to start your own chain reaction.
“I think this program delivered a great message,” said Julie Marotta, who son, Chris, attends Milton High. “I know that my son was moved by it, and I wanted to see if for myself. I’m glad I did.”
The Milton Public Schools invited all community members, parents, guardians and students from both public and private high schools to attend.
“I liked the piece about kindness, and how they said compassion was the greatest form of love that humans can offer,” Alex Etienne, mother of students at St. Mary of the Hills school in Milton.
The goal of the program is to replace bullying and violent behavior with kindness and compassion.
L to R: Superintendent Mary Gormley, Pierce Middle School Principal James Jette, MHS teacher Stephanie Coronesi,, MHS Adjustment Counselor Katherine Sullivan, Pierce Guidance Counselor Lisa Veldran, MHS Guidance Counselor Rich Guarino, MHS Principal Dr. Joseph Arangio, MHS Vice Principal Alan Cron and Rachel's Challenge presenter Matt Salnick.