There is nothing quite like the sound of a red rubber ball meeting a sneaker to bring a community together. Last month, our Day Education program took a much-needed break from the books and headed to the back fields for our highly anticipated Staff vs. Youth kickball showdown. It was a day defined by "letting our hair loose," shared laughter, and just the right amount of competitive spirit.
With a perfectly mowed kickball diamond and a healthy amount of "polite" trash talking, we started the game.
The sound of yelling directions and giggles filled the air, but it was the peer encouragement that really stood out. It was incredible to see the youth cheering each other on, coaching their friends, celebrating every successful base stolen, and showing support when they didn't succeed.
The final tally was 14 to 17 in favor of the youth. While staff put up a valiant effort, we need it on record that the youth team "borrowed" two staff members to make the numbers even. We aren't saying they were the ringers, but it's suspiciously close when you factor in the "traitors". Beyond the final score, the game was a great motivator for the week. The youth had a fun, tangible reason above just their education to show up every day that week.
Days like this remind us all that education is about more than what happens at a desk—it’s about building relationships, fostering teamwork, and knowing when to just enjoy some fun in the sun. The staff might have taken the loss this time, but we’re already training and practicing our pitches for the rematch.
