PARIS – Two Maine-based motivational speakers will be guest speakers at the 2013 Respect Team’s Wellness Day.

The event is being held from 7:45 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 12, at Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School.

Lesa Densmore, a native of Gardiner and a University of Maine graduate, and Matthew Tardy, Buckfield native, will be the speakers, according to Jeanie Stone, Respect Team adviser since 1997.

For 16 years, the OHCHS Respect Team has provided annual wellness events for the entire staff and student body, providing motivational speakers, substance abuse prevention, distracted driving prevention and many other healthy activities to promote a respectful culture, said Stone in a statement this week. The team slogan — “We’re making a difference, so can you!” — encourages tolerance, models responsibility, fosters respect and celebrates diversity.

“I have a lot of friends who have been bullied in the past, and I want to bring an awareness to them, and help them find ways to enjoy themselves,” said Tabitha Haney, OHCHS student and member of the Respect Team.

According to the information from Stone, Densmore, a survivor of addiction, has traveled nationwide as a presenter and educator on addiction. She uses her life experiences to educate students about the dangers of gambling and other addictions. A trained professional recovery coach, she works with those in crisis to help lay the foundation necessary for appropriate action.

Matthew Tardy will present a complete character education performance to show students the importance of setting goals and making positive choices. He has performed at the White House and is recognized as one of the country’s most innovative variety artists. He uses inspirational stories, high-tech juggling and live music to get his message across.

The day will also include a variety of activities to engage students and promote  well-being.

Parents of students are encouraged to attend one of the three 50-minute presentations in the auditorium, beginning at 7:45 a.m. Classes will resume at 10:30 a.m. following this event and run for the remainder of the day.

“Wellness Day was planned in hopes to bring awareness to Oxford Hills students, and has been extremely fun to work on and make possible,” said Kyleigh Roberts, Respect Team member.