High School Wellness Week Promotes Mindfulness, Stress Management, and Connection

Grand Island High School focused on student well-being with a Wellness Week. It was designed to promote mindfulness, stress management, and positive connections. Wellness Week ran from Wednesday, January 7, to Wednesday, January 14, with a variety of activities integrated into the school day.

Throughout the week, students are engaging in age-appropriate, practical strategies that support mental health and overall wellness, facilitated by the district’s dedicated support staff.

“Wellness Week gives us the opportunity to meet students where they are and provide simple tools they can use every day to manage stress and support their overall well-being,” said School Social Worker Sara Barczykowski.

Wellness Week Activities

Wednesday, January 7 – Monday, January 12
High school social workers visited Physical Education classes to work directly with students on simple and effective techniques for managing stress, practicing mindfulness, and supporting emotional wellness.

“By embedding wellness strategies into the school day, we’re helping students build skills that extend beyond the classroom,” Barczykowski added.

On Monday, January 12, social workers also facilitated structured mindfulness sessions in the high school gym. 

Tuesday, January 13
During lunch periods, students had access to games and sensory items designed to encourage relaxation and social connection.

“Sometimes students just need a chance to pause, reset, and connect with one another,” she explained. “These activities are meant to create a calm, welcoming space during an otherwise busy day.” These activities provided students with an opportunity to unwind and recharge during the school day. 

Wednesday, January 14
Wellness Week concluded with a special visit from Mrs. Peld’s therapy dog, Lady Bell, offering students a calming and positive experience. Lady Bell is part of the SPCA Serving Erie County's "Paws of Love" program.

“Therapy animals can have an incredibly positive impact on students’ stress levels and mood,” Mrs. Peld shared. “It’s a simple way to bring comfort and joy into the school day.” The therapy dog visited with students during passing times as they transitioned between classes, helping to end the week on a comforting and uplifting note.

Wellness Week reflects the district’s continued commitment to supporting the social-emotional health of students and creating a school environment where students feel supported, connected, and ready to learn.