To the Editor:
Philomath Middle School extends gracious and humble thanks to the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and the Philomath Community Foundation for their support of the HERO Challenge.
With grants of $3,000 from the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund and $1,000 from the Philomath Community Foundation, we were able to take all of our seventh-grade students to the Oregon State Challenge Course.
The HERO Challenge is a critical component of our bullying prevention efforts, and our goal is to increase students’ confidence and courage. When students feel more confident in themselves, they are less likely to hurt others. When they feel more courageous, they are more likely to interrupt bullying and be an upstander, not a bystander.
Climbing telephone poles, walking across wires and jumping off platforms 30 feet in the air at the Challenge Course are all powerful ways to practice these skills.
We heartily thank the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and the Philomath Community Foundation for helping foster a more confident and courageous culture at our school.
Mike Panico
School counselor, Philomath Middle School