Students at Drumheller Valley Secondary School (DVSS) were challenged to live with no regrets.
On Friday, May 31, DVSS held its second No Regrets Day, organized by the Friends of Rachel (FOR) Club, the school’s anti-bullying group. The day was a roaring success according to organizers.
“It’s bigger and better than last year,” said teacher Lynn Hemming, who helps the FOR Club.
“We’re encouraging kids to make good choices in their lives, so they live with no regrets. We don’t want them to make foolish choices and then have to live with consequences that would plague them for the rest of their lives. Last year, we felt the message got out really loud and clear, and it did again this year.”
In the morning, Grade 7 and 8 students took some time to clean litter in the area surrounding the school. Senior high students attended a sex education-themed presentation.
The day was made possible through a $24,000 provincial grant.
“It’s about making good choices in life, in particular when it comes to relationships and sexuality. The grant made it possible to finance the special event and other educational materials, conferences, and staff professional development. It’s going to have an impact for years to come, because we now have resources in place we did not have two years ago,” said Hemming.
In the afternoon, students and teachers were treated to a barbecue and some fun. The day culminated in a softball showdown between teachers and students. The students had the upper hand in the early innings, but the teachers rallied and came away with the win.
It is hoped No Regrets Day will continue to be an annual event at DVSS.
“I believe it’s already been entrenched in our school culture that it will become something we do on a regular basis,” said Hemming.
Landon Brown crushes a home run during a friendly slo-pitch game between Drumheller Valley Secondary School teachers and students. The students started strong, but the teachers came back for the win.
Darion Alford (top) and Wyatt Gray did their best to sabotage each other during an obstacle course race during No Regrets Day at DVSS.
Students, like Charles Coates, went wild for a huge inflatable slip and slide during No Regrets Day at DVSS.