Sidney High School Urges Students to 'Be The Change'

Sidney High School students are being encouraged to think and see outside of themselves.

During the week of Nov. 18-22, students will have opportunities to make the school a better place, reach out to students they may not always interact with, meet seniors and more. The program is student-led under the direction of Shelby Price.

It is called "Be The Change Week." Each day will have specific emphasis for students to apply.

Be The Change Week is a follow-up to Challenge Day which occurs in the spring. Be The Change Week provides opportunities for students to be the change of their community.

Be The Change Week starts Monday with "Show The Love." Show The Love Monday is when students are encouraged to smile more, use the love symbol from sign language and overall be kind to each other.

Tuesday is "High Five Day." The challenge is to give as many "high-fives" as possible during school. It is a method of affirmation without hugs and levels of affection that may make some people uncomfortable.

Also on Tuesday, the school will be working with Nick Hayes of Keep Sidney Beautiful to host a chili feed at the Comfort Inn. The event is $2 per person and starts at 6 p.m.

Wednesday is "Protect Our Homes Day." Students are researching community service opportunities - time and weather permitting - and other activities of encouragement. Activities under consideration include snow removal, trash pick-up, writing holiday notes, and meeting with residents of the Extended Care Center.

Thursday is "Compliments Day." Shelby Price, high school attendance administrator, said Sidney High School thrives on #thepowerofus. Thursday, students are encouraged to promote pictures of "us," with prizes to the best pictures.

Friday is "Mix It Up Friday" when students are encouraged to spend time with a student - for example at lunch - they may not typically spend much time with. The goal is to share experiences with each other, affirm the value of each student.

Throughout the week there will be posters encouraging the themes of the week. One poster is "Peace Begins With You," and the other is "Take Action for Change."