On October 29, schools across Henrico County were required to host a “mix it up day” in which students sit with a new set of students at lunch for one day. The Godwin counselors and administration decided to allow the students and teachers to mix up their clothing as well.
Colorful balloons were put up in the cafeteria and technology support technician Justin Cole put music together to play during lunches. “I’m happy to be involved anyway, especially with something that’s mixing music. I think this should happen more than once a year. I’m excited to see the kids mix it up,” said Cole.
Peer helpers, guidance aids, student government leaders, and Teachers for Tomorrow students were chosen as group leaders.
Group leaders were sent out to each lunch table with conversation starter cards in order to get students involved.
The guidance department numbered the tables and had students sit according to their day of birth.
“A lot of students didn’t want to come out of their comfort zones and the ones who did, I see them as leaders,” said Director of Guidance Deanna Hudson.
The goal of the day was to get students and teachers to break down the walls of diversity and accept others as individuals rather than separate clique groups
Junior Tanisha Agarwala personally enjoyed mix it up day. “I just love dressing up, meeting new people, and putting myself out there,” Agarwala said.
“What a great opportunity to see what we all have in common,” said principal Beth Armbruster.