Good Longhorn News

The Holcomb High School student athletes had some fun Monday, September 1st, doing sidewalk chalk. Outside the high school, there are numerous drawings spreading love and positivity in honor of suicide prevention month.

Holcomb’s students took initiative, meeting together to chalk up the kindness! What started with the NHS members blossomed into many sports teams and clubs coming to the high school to spread their messages.

Hailey Medina, senior, wanted to make a positive change. She said, “I think it’s important for everyone to know that they are loved and feel welcomed into our school.”

The students of Holcomb High School have experienced loss in many ways. Working through the deaths of beloved classmates, students have come to recognize how important mental health is. Through this activity, the students aim to spread as much love as possible to let people know that they are seen and heard.

Malia Ruda, senior, said, “Originally I had planned on doing a sunflower because Cassie loved sunflowers and Kayleen liked yellow, but then I changed my mind and did a sun. I wanted to encourage people to smile and give hope to people to believe in themselves.” Malia thought this event as a whole brightened people’s day. “I saw people smiling as they walked in, and it for sure made a positive effect.”

Not only did the students of HHS want to spread their love, staff was also involved. Sponsors and coaches were with the students all the way, encouraging them and inspiring them.

Mrs. Gifford, counselor, said “I hope the words help our students feel the positivity and that they are loved and appreciated here at HHS.” Mrs. Gifford felt like it was a good visual reminder that you’re not alone.

Mrs. Barrett, volleyball coach and math teacher, said “Mrs. Fritz reached out to get groups to come out for the extended weekend and when we asked the seniors to join in, they jumped at the idea and came an hour early to practice.” 

Mrs. Fritz, Holcomb’s NHS sponsor and English teacher, said, “I set up this event in order to spread love, kindness, and awareness during the month of September. I feel that mental health is important and something that should be recognized.” Mrs. Fritz reached out to other club sponsors to give them an opportunity to participate, whether at the school or in their own neighborhoods. When asked if she would do this project again, given the chance, she said, “Of course I would!”