On Sept.12 at 5:30 p.m. in the Loch Raven Academy gymnasium, we are having a presentation entitled “Rachel’s Challenge." The event is open to all members of the community.

Rachel’s Challenge exists to equip and inspire individuals to replace acts of violence, bullying and negativity with acts of respect, kindness and compassion.

Rachel’s Challenge is based on the life and writings of Rachel Joy Scott, who was the first victim of the Columbine school shootings in 1999. Through her example, Rachel’s Challenge is making a positive impact in the lives of millions of people every year.

I decided to host this event because I am trying to take a proactive approach to changing the culture among the students here at Loch Raven. I want for every student to behave in a manner that is kind and encouraging as they interact with one another and I believe having this event is a step in the right direction.

The students of Loch Raven will see the presentation that morning, then a group of 30 students will be trained at the end of the school day to keep the positivity going throughout the year and then we will have this presentation at 5:30 p.m. for all parents and members of the community.

I will know that I have been successful when every student in my school is respectful to not only their teachers and administrators but to their peers and themselves. For more information about Rachel's Challenge, feel free to visit their website at http://www.rachelschallenge.org/ .