Today SFA will host a “Recharge” event during Tiger block in the SOA with games and food, intended to alleviate the stress of final exams.
“Come and enjoy a treat/snack/drink outside by the tennis courts and then enjoy inside games and take time to socialize, relax, destress and have fun, before finals begin,” said Special Education teacher Carolyn Fertig, one of the staff members who helped plan the event.
According to Fertig, the event will feature activities like hungry hippos, sticker making, friendship bracelet making, a kickboxing lesson from math teacher Caroline Vuilleumier and kickball, with special appearances from K-Pop club students, Caring Canines, and Leo the community dog.
“I think the Tiger Recharge is important because it gives students a moment to slow down, take a deep breath, and connect with peers, with their counselors, and with the dogs too,” said junior May Bunton, as SFA representative,
“Finals season can be really overwhelming and I think it’s just a good opportunity for a little bit of comfort and joy,” added Bunton.
The event was planned by the SFA, in conjunction with Principal Henry Turner, Vice Principal Amy Winston, graphic communications teacher Tom Donellan, the Main Office, custodial and PEHW Staff, and the Newton Police department, which employs Leo.
“Students should come today because there is something for everyone to have fun. We also want to make sure students are being seen with their mental health as it is so important especially with the SFA,” said freshmen Ashyln Bauger, an SFA representative.
One major focus of the SFA this year has been student mental health, as it relates to standardized testing.
“This event actually came out of discussions about the AP testing bill and how high stress environments can take a toll on mental health and we wanted to create a space that is super low pressure but also reminds students that support is available,” said Bunton.
Some additional SFA achievements surrounding student mental health have included partnering with the counseling department to better advertise counseling resources.
