Source: The Argus
[insidebayarea.com/argus/localnews/ci_3927184]
On June 12, 2006 The Argus reported, "Before Elsa Castillo participated in the school's Challenge Day this year, she wasn't too comfortable sharing her personal life with a complete stranger — especially at school. But after that day — an interpersonal program designed to help students share with their peers things about their families, cultures and personal lives — her eyes were opened to a brave new world. 'After that day, they weren't strangers anymore,' said Castillo, a Castro Valley High School senior who will be graduating this week. 'It changed my whole life.' These were the thoughts bubbling in the minds of about 30 students Sunday as they listened to school officials and faith leaders from the Bay Area's interfaith community encourage them to grow personally and love their neighbors as they matriculate to the next level in their lives. 'This is a time for personal, individual reflection to one's own spirit,' said Principal Deborah Coco at Castro Valley High's Sixth Annual Interfaith Baccalaureate Service at the Center for the Arts. 'As we let our light shine, we consciously allow others' light to shine as well.' Castro Valley has more than 40 denominations, and just about every one of them is represented in the high school's student body population, said Penelope Hughes, chairwoman of the Parent Student Teachers Association's equality and diversity committee."