Talent showcase Friday at Lake City High
A new K-12 event will showcase the many talents that can be found across the Coeur d'Alene School District.
Strengths in Action, a vibrant, interactive celebration will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Lake City High School. It is being launched to replace the district's previous Color Run tradition with a more expansive and engaging experience.
"We are planning on showcasing a healthy activity, which would be singing," Lake City sophomore Paige Hatfield told The Press in a Saturday email.
Strengths in Action is built around the framework of Sources of Strength, a nationally recognized program focused on promoting mental health, resilience and well-being among students.
Paige is participating as a part of the SOS Club, of which she is a member "because it builds such an amazing and healthy community that we can share with people around us," she said.
"An event like this is so important so we can showcase the parts of the (SOS) wheel that we don’t recognize every day," she said. "I hope that the attendees will see and understand each of the different parts that Sources of Strength represent."
Coeur d'Alene School District mental health specialist Raelynn Loken explained that the Strengths in Action program will emphasizes eight key strengths that support individuals in navigating life’s challenges: mental health, family support, positive friends, spirituality, physical health, generosity, social engagement and healthy activities.
"These strengths will be the thematic backbone of the event, inspiring performances, exhibits and interactive stations throughout the day," she said.
This new event will offer a multi-venue, multidisciplinary platform that celebrates the diverse talents and passions of students.
Highlights will include:
• Live performances: Taekwondo, cheerleading, soloists, band, orchestra and juggling
• Creative expression: Visual arts, live painting, poetry readings and pottery
• Student leadership: ASB initiatives and club showcases
• Hands-on activities tied to wellness and community-building
Loken said this event will serve as an opportunity to bring families into the heart of the school community.
"It’s a powerful way to show what Coeur d'Alene schools have to offer, not just in academics, but in creativity, character and connection," she said. "Parents and community members will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible talent and strength that surrounds us. It’s more than just a showcase — it’s a celebration."
Visitors will enjoy concessions, raffle baskets, student art displays and performances from across the district.
Loken said Strengths in Action was developed to reflect the district's evolving priorities: honoring student voice, building resilience, focusing on strength and prevention versus crisis and fostering a strong sense of community.
"The event invites students not just to participate, but to lead, inspire and connect through their unique abilities," she said. "We’re proud of this event and what it represents, a deeper, more personal celebration of strength in all its forms. We look forward to seeing how this event evolves in the years ahead as a cornerstone of our district’s commitment to whole-child education."
Lake City High is at 6101 N. Ramsey Road, Coeur d'Alene.