In a school year that features tests, concerts, and
graduation, the most important day on the Windsor Central Middle School
Calendar might just be Up with Life Day.
“I’ve told my students that I promise them we will make them future-ready through empowering educational experience. That’s the mission of the District. That is what today is all about. Every single part of today lines up with that mission,” said Windsor Central Middle School principal Kevin Strahley.
Students had their choice of a range of sessions to attend,
from coding to dance to financial planning.
“This is my dream board,” said 6th grader Madison Sonhouse, who created it after attending the financial planning session. “We wrote down these (dreams), and they encouraged you to do them.”
The day was also filled with team-building exercises,
whether through navigating obstacles outside, or an improv performance inside. While
many 6th graders enjoyed their first Up with Life day, those with
older siblings knew what to expect.
“My brother talked about it every year. He said you get really nice shirts and do a lot of activities. So far, it’s been really fun,” said 6th grader Jazmin Pearson, who made guacamole at the taste
testing session.
Not surprisingly, one of the most popular sessions was pet
therapy, featuring therapy dogs Benny, Minnie, and Rhoda.
“They go to hospitals and make people feel happier,” said 6th
grader Trista Ann Lewis. She took the session more seriously than most. Her
uncle is a Binghamton Police officer with a K-9 partner. Lewis plans on training
her own dog next year.
“I’ve been studying it since first grade,” said Lewis.
The day also gave a chance for some Windsor Central High
School students and graduates to come back to their alma mater and pass along
what they have learned to younger Black Knights.
Jordan Haven, Corey Hagerman, Kendyl Gorick, Larissa Balachick, and Kaylee Stone conducted a panel about what it is like to be a college athlete. WCHS senior Casey Hull led a session on fishing. He’s an experienced Bass Pro Shop tournament series competitor.
“I thought it was a really fun experience when I was here. I learned a lot of different things,” said Hull. “It’s really cool to teach about what I’ve experienced, and maybe get some kids involved with tournaments.”
In all, the day featured workshops in 21 different fields
and ended with a concert by local musician Jared Campbell.