North Forsyth High School is one of the many Forsyth County Schools that participate in the annual BYOT 5k and Fun Run. This year, due to COVID-19, the event has been canceled and transformed into something new called the “iChallenge.” The fundraiser started on Oct. 1 and will end on Oct. 31. For adults, the competition costs $25, and for kids 10 and under, it costs $15. 

The “iChallenge” is a fundraiser exclusively for the Forsyth BYOT Equity Program. This program ensures that all students have equal access to technology in the county. Being able to have technology and virtual learning makes BYOT more important than before with so many students taking online classes instead of in-person classes.

North is offering multiple wellness sessions for both students and teachers in order to help enhance motivation and enforce healthy habits. These activities range from frisbee tournaments and trail walkings to dance periods. Outside of school, North also provides family/staff hikes and yoga classes.

Jessica Younghouse, AP Language and 10th Honors Literature teacher, is so far loving the “iChallenge” and it’s overall message of “Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good.” Younghouse stated, “I have really enjoyed hiking as a staff and catching up with colleagues I rarely see. I have come to love practicing yoga each week and have implemented some of the breathing exercises with my students to help with managing stress. This challenge has helped me realize that I need to consistently implement exercise in my life for my total well-being and happiness.”

Physical activity plays a vital role in both physical and mental health, so why not exercise for the sake of your well-being and for a good cause? Every student deserves to have their own piece of technology, so they can achieve maximum academic success. Without access to devices, many students in Forsyth County wouldn’t be able to complete their day to day virtual assignments for school.