Second Awareness Weekend a Success for Students

Under the direction of Amityville Memorial High School teacher Jason McGowan, the high school held its second Awareness Weekend of the school year at Northwest Elementary School. Approximately 110 students and 11 adults attended the weekend, which was described by McGowan as one of the “more emotional” weekends of them all. The program is designed to teach students about tolerance, acceptance and respect, while bringing to the forefront the many issues faced by young people, and allowing them to discuss these issues in a safe and nonthreatening environment.

Highlights of the weekend included a student panel of five teens, which discussed such issues as being a teenage parent, abuse and neglect, foster care, and incarceration. Community sharing sessions were also an integral part of the event, and allowed participants to express their thoughts and feelings about the different presentations they experienced. Additionally, motivational guest speakers from outside organizations were included and shared topics relevant to the program.

For members of the Class of 2008, this marked the final Awareness Weekend of their high school careers. “Many seniors attended all six Awareness Weekends,” stated Mr. McGowan, referring to the two programs per year students are permitted to participate beginning in their sophomore year. Mr. McGowan, who thanked them for believing in the program, gave the seniors a special tribute, calling them from the bleachers to the gym floor to the tune of “That’s What Friends Are For,” and reminding them that their participation in and contribution to the Awareness Weekend program has paved the way for future weekends benefiting Amityville Memorial High School students.