Students at Ulysses High School recently took part in a unique and engaging event focused on building healthy habits and positive outlets, as the school hosted its first-ever Positive Addictions Day.
The idea for the event began with school counselor Heather Reimer, who was inspired after attending a counseling conference several years ago. There, she learned of a similar initiative led by a middle school counselor. After discussing the concept with school nurse Ruby Romero, the two began developing a plan tailored for Ulysses High School. Their efforts gained momentum when the school was awarded a Blue Cross Blue Shield Healthy Habits Grant, providing funding to bring the idea to life.
Organizers centered the day around the concept of “positive addictions”—healthy activities that students can turn to for personal growth and well-being. Students first completed a survey to identify their top interests, which included physical fitness, healthy routines, music, nutrition, and mind-and-body relaxation techniques. From there, 15 local community members were invited to share their knowledge and experiences. Students rotated through five 30-minute sessions, gaining insight and practical tools in each area.
The day began with a full-school assembly featuring guest speaker Nash Lindberg of Great Bend, who shared his personal story after surviving an accidental shooting. His message focused on resilience, encouraging students to develop strategies for overcoming adversity and navigating challenges in their own lives.
One of the highlights—and biggest logistical challenges—was organizing a color walk/run. With no prior experience hosting such an event, organizers created a 2.5-mile route featuring eight color stations staffed by teachers, parents, and community volunteers. Participants finished at the football field, where activities included cornhole, a jousting pit provided by National Guard recruiters, and pickleball. The event concluded with prize drawings, adding an extra element of excitement to the day.
The event was made possible through a collaborative effort across the school and community. Members of the Positive Addictions Day committee included Elizabeth Rogers, Crystal Wilson, and Sophia Rietcheck, with additional support from administrators Mr. Coffey and Mr. Rietcheck, as well as athletic director Mr. McAtee. Students in the Applied Business Development classes, known as Tiger Pride Printing and taught by Mrs. Scott, also contributed by sponsoring the event’s color run t-shirts.
Organizers say the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong feedback from students, staff, and community members alike. More than just a one-day event, Positive Addictions Day served as a reminder that healthy habits, strong community connections, and positive outlets can have a lasting impact on students’ lives.
See more photos, page 12.
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