Students from Calhoun High School visited Merrick Avenue Middle School on Oct. 24 for a day devoted to leadership, connection, and personal growth through a series of engaging and meaningful activities.  

“The event featured a blend of academic enrichment, social-emotional learning, and school spirit designed to strengthen relationships among students and reinforce the school’s values of collaboration, responsibility, and kindness,” explained Merrick Avenue Assistant Principal Nicole Rhodes, one of the day’s coordinators. 

Throughout the day, Calhoun Leadership students, under the direction of Brian Joyce and in partnership with Rhodes and the MAMS staff, facilitated an eighth-grade team-building event in the gymnasium. 

“Watching students really collaborate and work together created a really wonderful environment in the gym,” added Rhodes. 

Working with their Rams Connect advisory groups, students were challenged to work together using only pool noodles to move a marble from one end of the gym to the other. Leadership students supported the activity by awarding points for teamwork, encouraging peers, and modeling effective communication and problem-solving. 

“At the end of the activity, the leadership students lead a debriefing with each group and lead conversations about the team building activity to address collaboration and team building, then transitioning to acceptable behaviors that are needed to work together and build a community,” explained Joyce. 

Additionally, seventh-grade students heard a presentation from Neuroscientist Dr. Dewey about the science of drug and alcohol addiction and the impact of substance use on the brain. 

Both grades also heard from Richard Specht during his Cultivate Kindness assembly, where he shared his family’s story and inspired students to create a culture of kindness through empathy and positive action. 

“We hope students learn from his presentation but also are provided with the knowledge to make the best decisions for their own health and well-being,” added Merrick Avenue Principal Katelyn Dunn.  

The day’s altered schedule also incorporated a series of special programs designed to promote student well-being and strengthen school culture, including: 

• Rams Connect Extended Lesson: Advisory groups participated in discussions and activities centered on building a positive and inclusive school community. 

• Pumpkin Decorating Contest: Rams Connect groups showcased their creativity and teamwork through a seasonal pumpkin decorating challenge. 

• Spirit Rally: The day concluded with a lively spirit rally, bringing students and staff together in celebration of school pride and community. 

“The combination of interactive learning, personal reflection, and schoolwide celebration made the day a meaningful experience for students at every grade level,” added Rhodes. “By integrating leadership, kindness, and awareness initiatives, the district continues to promote its mission of developing responsible, compassionate, and engaged learners. 

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