Day-long retreat helps students build character, friendships
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

SYLVIE BELMOND/Acorn Newspapers THAT’S THE SPIRIT—Alexa Liacko, Jordan Engel, Taylor Robichaud, Audrey Stelzer, Tina Wu, Summer Bennet, Florencio Morales and Marissa Kaul, on the floor, present their group cheer during the Achieving Character Together retreat at Chaparral Middle School last week.

The fun and games at the Achieving Character Together retreat at Chaparral Middle School in Moorpark revealed some important lessons for the 56 students who participated in the recent day-long event.

ACT is a self-esteem program where students work on teambuilding activities and discuss teen issues.

As science teacher Pat Wallace kept the youth entertained with creative games, he animatedly conveyed to them that every individual is unique and deserving of love and respect.

The day was fun and emotional for all who participated. The event began with laughter during group events that featured games geared to help the teens connect, but became more solemn when the students were asked to share personal experiences and character traits that make them special.

Students also learned to make commitments, since what went on during the retreat was meant to stay at the retreat.

“It’s a great feeling to help someone come out of their shell,” said Audrey Stelzer, an eighthgrader who was chosen to lead one of the groups. “We do all these activities to show kids are special in their own way.”

The retreat helps students to make new friends, said Tyler Cherry, another eighth-grader who was selected to be a leader. Games and discussions are meant to show that everyone is more alike than they are different, he said.

All participants are eligible to become leaders at future retreats.

“It’s a lot of work to put this together, but very rewarding,” said Dyan McIntosh, a counselor at Chaparral. The leaders met twice a week during lunch for the past few months to organize the day’s activities.

The retreat was an exceptional day for participants, leaders and staff, the counselor said. Students opened up and shared about themselves and showed support for each other.

“Each participant left with a feeling that they are special, unique, supported and loved,” McIntosh said.

They all pledged to do their best as students, friends and family members, she said. The retreat also reminded the students they must believe in themselves and strive to achieve all that they are able, McIntosh said.

The retreats take place about three times per year.