What started as a student project has grown into a region-wide movement. The boX Challenge, founded by MHS junior Michael Collura, is calling on schools across the Capital Region to join a campaign encouraging students to reject the labels society places on them, and to replace those labels with something far more powerful, their own positive words.
The challenge is simple and visual. During the week of March 30, students write one positive word about themselves embodying strength, self-worth or acceptance, directly on their skin using markers. The initiative is a protest against bias, stereotypes and limiting labels that are reinforced within schools and communities.
Schools are encouraged to document their participation by filming themselves during the week. Videos can be as simple as a short clip showing students with their positive words written on their skin.
The boX Challenge concludes with a Unity Rally on Thursday, April 2. During the event, student clubs will host stations featuring activities that promote connection. Stations will include friendship bracelet making, poetry writing, and community art painting. Video footage submitted by all participating districts will be showcased on a large screen, bringing the impact of the challenge to life.
The rally will also feature a live performance by the Mohonasen Teacher Band and feature therapy animals, the Traveling Therapy Pigs.
More about the boX Challenge
The boX Challenge encourages students to recognize the positive in themselves and in others, rather than focusing on flaws or differences. It challenges participants to “break out of the boxes” that society and peers may place them in, and to reject the negative stereotypes that come with those labels.
“Students are the experts of their own school culture,” said Collura. “When they write positive words on their skin and walk the halls, it starts conversations. It builds community. It reminds everyone that we are more than the boxes others put us in,” he added.
From classroom idea to community movement
Collura developed the concept through participation in the Capital Region BOCES’ Elevating Student Voices program in spring 2025, as well as leadership programs including Educate to Empower and HOBY New York East (Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership). The message resonated with fellow students, and what began as a single school project quickly expanded into a broader movement.
Twelve schools are participating:
• Mohonasen
• Schalmont
• South Colonie
• Burnt Hills
• South Glens Falls
• Ravena
• Ballston Spa
• Cairo-Durham
• Duanesburg
• Mechanicville
• Sharon Springs
• Clinton