A program to reduce bullying and violence may soon be coming to Eastern Pulaski Schools. Superintendent Dan Foster told the school board last week that he’s been speaking with the three principals about bringing Rachel’s Challenge to Eastern Pulaski. “Rachel Scott was one of the first students killed in Columbine,” Foster explained, “and she was just a very well-liked student. She was always very positive. Once they got in and saw some of her stuff, she had these little notes everywhere, and basically, it’s about making the world a better place.”
Foster said Rachel’s Challenge explores some of the issues that may prevent kids from wanting to go to school. “Sometimes, it’s because of the conditions they’re in,” he said. “Their mindset is, ‘Why do I need to go to school?’ But sometimes, unfortunately, it’s because there’s other things going on at school. This program will bring a program K-through-12. It will be two different programs, obviously. . . . But the same day, they will do a community program that evening. So right now, we’re working on setting up dates.”
The challenge with Rachel’s Challenge is the cost. “One of the reasons it hasn’t been brought here, it’s $9,600 for the day,” Foster said. “It is not cheap. But I have spoken firsthand to a couple schools that have done it, and they just can’t speak more highly of it. It’s just incredible. So hopefully that’s a very good and lasting thing that our kids will get to see.”
Eastern Pulaski may be able to use money received in the latest round of Rural and Low-Income Schools grants. Foster also plans to bring back Sergeant Terry Hall for his Body Safety presentation.
