September 10, 2008

 News Release

TISD Middle School Students Accepting the Challenge

After the entire student body of Moore MST Magnet School attended the “Rachel’s Challenge” assembly earlier this week, members of Moore’s student council attended a training in which the assembly guest speaker worked with members to identify areas of impact from the presentation.  The topic of the assembly was simply:  Starting a chain reaction.  More than 800 students from Moore listened as a friend of Rachel Joy Scott spoke of Rachel’s kindness and the legacy she left behind.  Rachel’s goal:  to change the world for the better, one person at a time.

During this meeting the thirty-one members brainstormed for ways in which Rachel’s Challenge could be incorporated on the campus of Moore to ensure that Rachel’s legacy continues to live.  The student council members agreed that the points received in the message are simple yet powerful.  Each member took an oath to promote kindness and acceptance of others for the good of the environment at Moore.

Rachel was the first person killed during the shootings that took place at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999.  Personal diaries that belonged to Rachel have become a source for one of the most life changing school programs in America.  In her diaries she touched upon ideas that would make schools a better place for all.  The five points were to look for the best in others to eliminate prejudice.  She suggested that fellow students dare to dream by setting goals and keeping a journal.  Rachel wanted others to choose positive influences while adopting the use of kind words and actions.  Ms. Scott realized that if she and fellow students would follow these simple steps it would start a chain reaction of epic proportions.

Students and family members can look forward to receiving literature concerning the assembly and finding out more ways in which all can contribute to Accepting the Challenge.

Photo: Moore students signing the “Rachel’s Challenge” banner

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