This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Schools

Can Columbine Victim's Story Inspire 'Chain Reaction of Kindness'?

A community presentation of "Rachel's Challenge" will be presented in September at Batavia Arts Centre.

Can the story of Columbine victim Rachel Scott inspire “a chain reaction of kindness and compassion” here?

That's the question that will be asked Sept. 16 and Sept. 17, when Batavia students and area community members are invited to take part in the nationwide program, "Rachel's Challenge."

Students at Batavia High School and Rotolo Middle School students will see the program during the school day, but a community presentation will be held at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 17 in the Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1201 Main St. (The entrance to the Centre is on Wilson Street.)

The program is described as the inspiring story of Rachel Scott — whose example of kindness and acceptance was brought to light when she became the first victim in the Columbine High School tragedy — conveyed through stories from Rachel’s life and writings.

"Rachel’s Challenge shows the profound positive impact we can have on those around us," a Batavia School District 101 email says. "Rachel’s Challenge demonstrates to the listener the power of deliberately reaching out in word and action to others to start what Rachel called 'a chain reaction of kindness and compassion,' which positively affects school climate."

Rachel’s Challenge encourages participants to examine their own lives in the light of the following five challenges: look for the best in others, dream big, choose positive influences, speak with kindness and start your own chain reaction.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?