The Middle School Golden Gauntlet at John Paul II Catholic School is back for its second year—stronger, more dynamic, and more meaningful than ever. Guided by Student Activities Director Kim McNab, supported by faculty and senior students, and inspired by Ron Clark’s “Amazing Shake” model, this exciting initiative helps middle schoolers practice vital real-world skills through creativity, etiquette, communication, and poise.

“Our students have truly embraced the spirit of the Golden Gauntlet,” said Mrs. McNab. “This year, we’ve expanded the program to encourage even deeper engagement. It’s not just about good manners—it’s about building character, confidence, and a true sense of community.”

Throughout the month of April, students collaborated in their Houses—Kolbe, Thérèse of Lisieux, Savio, and Sebastian—to create skits, hone their conversational skills, and prepare for a day filled with both fun and personal growth. On Friday, April 25, they put their preparation to the test in a three-part challenge: Meet & Greet, Etiquette, and The Gauntlet.

Meet & Greet: Students engaged in one-on-one conversations with high schoolers and faculty members on lively topics such as dream jobs, favorite hobbies, and even which superpowers would be the most useful. JPII teachers Tony Rossillo, Jen Cohen, and Deacon Brent Heathcott facilitated these sessions, helping middle schoolers practice handshakes, eye contact, and the art of small talk.

Etiquette: With the help of generous PTO volunteers, students were treated to a special snack while practicing formal table manners and community etiquette—including thoughtful clean-up and expressions of gratitude.

The Gauntlet: Perhaps the most energetic portion of the event, high school students acted out skits designed to challenge middle schoolers to respond to awkward or stressful scenarios with grace, composure, and kindness.

"Our goal is to equip our students with the interpersonal tools they need to be not just excellent students, but also outstanding citizens of the world," said JPII Principal Heather Rembold. "The Golden Gauntlet teaches them that success isn't just about academics—it's about character, resilience, and the ability to connect meaningfully with others." 

Why It Matters:

In today’s digital age, face-to-face communication skills are more critical than ever. Studies show that 85% of job success comes from soft skills like communication, teamwork, and emotional intelligence—not technical knowledge alone. Programs like the Golden Gauntlet give JPII students a unique advantage, helping them develop these essential skills early on.

Research from the Carnegie Institute even suggests that interpersonal skills can be more predictive of long-term success than academic credentials alone. By encouraging these abilities in middle school, JPII is preparing students to navigate high school, college, the workforce, and beyond with confidence and grace.

Mrs. McNab emphasized, “When we see our students shaking hands with poise, responding thoughtfully to challenging scenarios, and treating everyone with dignity and respect, we know we are fulfilling a deeper mission. We are helping them to live out our SHIELD values—service, high expectations, innovation, excellence, leadership, and discipleship.”

As students competed for coveted House Points toward the annual House Cup, they also grew in ways that will serve them for a lifetime—learning that a simple handshake, a polite thank you, or a kind response in a tough moment can change a life, including their own.

As the saints remind us, small acts of kindness and courage can build a better world. We pray: Saints Kolbe, Thérèse of Lisieux, Savio, and Sebastian, pray for us!