A very cool idea started at Boca Raton High School in Florida.  They actually call it a club – the We Dine Together Club. These students believe that no student should have to eat alone at their school. They believe that school should not be an isolating experience. So, each day members of this group roam the lunchroom and the courtyard at school, befriending those who are alone. One of the founding members, Denis Estimon said, “If we don’t try and go make that change, who’s going to do it?” Another member, Allie Sealy added, “Meeting someone who actually cares and listens to what you have to say really makes a difference.”

Joe’s Perspective: Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best ideas. It’s an idea that can be easily replicated by every single school in the country. It doesn’t cost any money and it doesn’t take any special skills. You just have to care and then decide to follow the blueprint laid out by Boca Raton High School.

Joe’s Challenge: I challenge every student that is reading this blog – perhaps because you are enrolled in a leadership class or maybe this is a part of your homeroom – to make this happen at your school. Organize, develop a plan, and carry it out. The plan needs to be well-organized. The plan need to account for daily and continuous actions. The plan needs to be long-term, so it doesn’t die out at the end of the year.

Your Turn: Will you take on this challenge? If so, return to this blog and post your plan and your results. Everyone would love to hear it.