Rachel’s Challenge is an all-school assembly and training program that was birthed out of the Columbine High School tragedy in 1999.  Rachel was the first student killed in the shootings that occurred.  Her story will be inspiring to all who hear it. It will touch students’ hearts and open minds toward making positive changes in attitude and behavior. Ironically, Rachel had written an essay one month before she was killed that challenged readers to “start a chain reaction of kindness and compassion”. That chain reaction has become a reality and we feel that this assembly will help us positively transform our school and breakdown the walls of diversity.

Colina will be hosting this inspiring assembly program on Sept. 24, 2007 in two morning assemblies. Following the message will be an informative training sessions for about 50 students that represent a cross culture of our school.  The training session will enable students to practically follow through with the challenges presented by mentoring other students in acts of kindness and compassion.

An evening event at 7:30 p.m. with parents, teachers, and community leaders will complete the day that will surely impact the culture and climate of our school.  Academic improvement, higher attendance levels, less bullying, and friendly atmosphere are all common results of Rachel’s Challenge. We hope that you can join us, please be looking for more information as we start the school year.

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As one way of committing to Rachel's Challenge, Colina offers a Rachel's Challenge SURE class, led by teacher Mr. Catalano. In lieu of the regular SURE 15-minute class (in which students read silently), students have a SURE in which they plan projects of outreach to others. One such project is a welcome to each student who is new at Colina after the school year has begun. To join Rachel's Challenge SURE, contact Mr. Catalano, ccatalano@conejo.k12.ca.us.