Are you "MAD," Bro?

You may be curious about the title of this post. Honestly, when I first heard this phrase, coined by our Journalism class back in October prior to our 4th annual Make a Difference Day, I laughed; the meaning was simple, humorous and once I learned what it meant, perfect. It really is perfect. As we were gearing up for our annual day of service, our Journalism class put together a great story covering this event and simply asked the question, “are you MAD, bro?” After a few awkward moments, some uncomfortable laughs and even one or two blank stares, they let us all in on the beauty of the phrase...are you “making a difference?”

Are you making a difference? I am not sure these students realized just how elegant that phrase was and in so many ways, really encompasses what Leyden and #LeydenPride is all about. See, at Leyden, so many people-students, teachers, staff, administrators, parents, community members- make a difference without really thinking about it. They’re “MAD” because that’s just what they do. It’s not about anything more than just wanting to help others and make a difference in our community. And, as our students do all of this, often without recognition and fanfare, I couldn't help but think about the huge difference they are making.

I thought about going back to the beginning of the year, but it would be near impossible to encompass everything our students have done to make a difference in one post. Then I thought, what about looking back at the last couple months? We celebrated “Act-tober” and without a flinch rolled right into November and now December and Leyden just kept on making a difference. However, I know I wouldn’t even be able to do that justice.

But, when I looked back at what Leyden has been involved with just in the last 2 weeks alone, I was floored; this is what “MAD” is all about. Since Thanksgiving alone, Leyden students have…

• Raised over $2500 dollars for the family of a maintenance worker who’s young grandson was diagnosed with, treated and has beaten cancer.
• Collected over 7,500 items of food to be donated to our local food bank for local families in need
• Served meals for the Leyden Family Services and their guests, taking the time to spread holiday cheer and kindness
• Come together to write over 150 holiday cards for children who are sick and won’t be able to go home this winter
• Passed out hot chocolate and candy canes to teachers and their classmates, just to say good morning
• Collected toys and clothing for our annual Toys for Tots drive
• Came out to support our Special Olympics Basketball Team for a Pack the Place, bringing along more canned goods to donate at the game
• Organized two “Ugly Sweater” contests where proceeds will go to our local organizations and families in need
• Volunteered in four of our local communities for their annual community Holiday Parties
• Rode the “Journey to the Northpole” along with over one hundred local children helping set the atmosphere and bring the joy
• Donated several hundred dollars as part of our "Duct Tape the Principal to the Wall" fundraiser with all proceeds going to our food drive

This is simply the last two weeks, and more likely than not, I have missed something! Wow. Now that the holiday season is here, helping others often comes under a microscope and the sentiment, are you “MAD?” takes on real meaning. At Leyden, you can feel the spirit in the air as more and more students are eager to help others. However, what I am most proud of is that although great things have been taking place over the last couple weeks, this is no different than any other time throughout the year. Just take a quick look at #LeydenPride and you will see that no matter when, no matter where, our students want to get involved and help others.

During this holiday season, Leyden is eager to make a difference. But that doesn’t mean we aren’t “MAD” all year round.