Hundreds of GCISD parents, students and teachers gathered at Mustang-Panther Stadium last night in support of Rachel's Challenge, a national program that has been incorporated district wide since 2008 to promote kindness, volunteering and tolerance.  The event was kicked off with opening remarks from Superintendent Dr. Robin Ryan, followed by the posting of the colors and pledge of allegiance carried out by Boy Scout  Troop 1905. The night also featured a rousing rendition of the Star Spangled Banner performed by Dove Elementary first grader Peyton Lain.

 

After the national anthem, students and teachers from all 11 elementary schools took part in the Link Presentation Parade. Throughout the school year, teachers recorded random acts of kindness on pieces of paper, which were then made into "links." These links were put together to make chains, representing one of the missions of Rachel's Challenge, starting a chain reaction of kindness. Each school paraded their chain around the track as the GHS Drum Line and Fabulous Filles performed on the field.  All together, over 46,000 random acts of kindness were represented by the chains.

 

Following the Link Parade there were performances by the CHHS Senior Drum Line and the combined middle school choirs. The Keynote speaker,former Rockwall ISD Superintendent Dr. Gene Burton, implemented the first Rachel's Challenge program in Texas. He gave high praise to the students and teachers of GCISD for their dedication to the mission of Rachel's Challenge and encouraged them to follow their dreams.

 

The program concluded with a song performed by all the elementary choirs entitled "Check It Out", which dealt with respect. The event was a strong representation of GCISD's commitment to Rachel's Challenge and promoting a safe and accepting environment for children to learn and grow.