Students at Warsaw Community High School recently participated in Impact Day, a program that promotes friendship and inclusion. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.
News Release
WARSAW – Warsaw Community High School students recently participated in Impact Day, a student-centered event focused on connection, belonging and community building.
During the event, students participated in team-building activities, group discussions and personal reflection exercises designed to help students better understand one another. The event’s mission is centered around creating a school culture where every student feels accepted, safe and celebrated.
Throughout the day, students participated in activities that encouraged active listening and meaningful conversations. The program also challenged students to think about how they can positively impact their school and community.
“I love getting to emcee this event and bring positive energy,” said Megan Dinse, coordinator and emcee for the event. “We actually have teenagers off their phones and engaging with one another. It’s a welcoming space of connection, laughter and encouragement. I want everyone to have this experience.”
Mandy Bailey, coordinator of the event, said that Impact Day continues to be one of the most meaningful experiences of the school year.
Students huddle in solidarity on Impact Day. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Schools.
“Impact Day is one of my favorite days of the year because students have the opportunity to connect to each other and their school community through fun, meaningful activities and team building,” Bailey said.
Students across grade levels described the experience as both impactful and encouraging. Olivia Starkweather, an 11th-grade student who first participated as a freshman and now serves as a student leader, called Impact Day “my favorite day of the year.”
Freshman Keatrine Jones said his favorite part of the day was “connecting and making friends,” while sophomore Kayleigh Fuller said she appreciated “how helpful it was and how I could share my feelings without feeling judged.”
Junior Zackary Reneker reflected on the power of hearing others’ stories and realizing shared experiences. “My favorite part of Impact Day was learning that I wasn’t alone on the things we talked about and even though it was competitive and fun activities, we still learned more about each other,” Reneker said.
Freshman Elizabeth Heckman said the atmosphere helped students feel comfortable being themselves. “I enjoyed the openness of the day,” Heckman said. “It all felt very welcoming, and I felt comfortable enough to speak.”