Rachel’s Challenge Inspires Mexico Students In Grades 5 Through 12

MEXICO – Students in fifth through 12th grade within the Mexico Academy and Central School District have embraced acceptance of others, kindness and the willingness to see the good in all.

Much of that sentiment has always existed within the halls of MACS buildings, but the re-energized high school student body and newly excited middle school students together have committed to accepting Rachel’s Challenge.

The challenge to be kind to others, always, and to spread compassion and hope began after Rachel Joy Scott was the first person killed in the tragic Columbine High School shooting on April 20, 1999.

Her joyous spirit lives on through service projects and sweet gestures, many of which in Mexico stemmed from the Friends of Rachel or FOR Club at Mexico High School.

Club members complete weekly random acts of kindness in school and the community and organize projects that benefit those in need.

During a recent Rachel’s Challenge presentation at Mexico High School, presenter Alex Jackson encouraged students to give people a few chances before making a decision about them.

That message carried over to Mexico Middle School where Jackson said he was pleased with the buzz from students in grades five through eight in wanting to bring Rachel’s legacy to their school.

Middle School Assistant Principal Patrick Vrooman said a few dozen students even participated in a leadership training and a FOR Club is expected to be established there later in the fall.

“There’s always a desire to have more students included,” Vrooman said.

The middle school FOR Club will not only do that, he said, but also help combat emotional and social needs of students.

Participation in the middle school FOR Club and Rachel’s Challenge opportunities will now serve as a stepping stone to Mexico High School’s related events.

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