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Nashwauk Keewatin High School started the school year with a great postive message. The Character Challenge Program held on September 3, 2019 helped to set the tone of the new year that NKHS is a welcoming environment, focused on building a positive culture. The Character Challenge promotes the social emotional aspect of learning to create a supportive, safe environment where kids feel connected to the school and one another.

Travis Guida and Ron Wilson, professional educators and public speakers, inspired students to be their best selves. Travis was a special education teacher before starting his Character Challenge Program, and Ron Wilson was a Native American liaison and now he tells his story of overcoming obstacles and he uses his hip hop music to motivate students to stay away from drugs and alcohol. The Character Challenge is a social emotional learning program with a message of connectivity.

Last year, the Nashwauk Area Community Fund donated to this cause for a half day presentation. This year, it was expanded to a full day program. Travis and Ron first trained student leaders before the school day began, and then help the large group assembly for the entire school. Ron performed his music and told his personal story. In the afternoon, the trained student leaders stayed with the new 7th graders continuing with an orientation with small group activities under the direction of Travis.  We more than gladly granted ISD 319, $1000 to help expand the Character Challenge Program.