Positive Youth Team Finding Creative Solutions

Positive Youth Team (PYT) is transforming classroom learning by engaging students in community volunteer work and reflection activities. PYT empowers youth to address local issues and amplifies their voices in problem-solving. Each youth group has a distinct identity tied to its community, fostering responsibility, leadership, and contribution.

Healthy Acadia Community Health Navigator Camisha Norris is supporting the work of the Positive Youth Team at Princeton Elementary School in Washington County.

The PYT students at Princeton Elementary are currently focused on enhancing their Gaga pit, a favorite recess activity. A Gaga pit is a type of enclosed playing area used for a popular game called Gaga Ball. Gaga Ball is a variant of dodgeball that is typically played in an octagonal or hexagonal pit. The objective of the game is to hit opponents below the knees with a soft ball while avoiding being hit oneself. Players are eliminated if they are struck by the ball or if they hit the ball out of bounds. The game is fast-paced and requires agility, quick reflexes, and strategic thinking.

The students identified drainage and size concerns and have embarked on a creative solution to upgrade their Gaga pit. Students in grades 5-8 are building cardboard sleds and organizing a sled racing event to be scheduled during the February break. The students aim to raise funds to upgrade and expand their Gaga pit through concessions and donations collected during the event, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable play area for future students.

PYT exemplifies how youth engagement programs bridge academic knowledge with real-world impact. By providing platforms for action and reflection, PYT cultivates a sense of civic responsibility, helps to deter tobacco and substance use, promotes resilience, and strengthens community pride among young individuals. Through initiatives like PYT, youth are inspired and encouraged to become proactive leaders in building better communities.

For more information about PYT contact Camisha at camisha.norris@healthyacadia.org or Corrie Hunkler at corrie.hunkler@healthacadia.org.