Music blasting, beanbags flying, and Haven students smiling.
The second Wellness Wednesday of the new school year took place on October 22 throughout all lunches. Both students and staff were seen painting pumpkins, playing corn hole, and competing in bingo. The goal of these activities was to keep students engaged and off their screens.
Outside in the brisk fall weather, students showed off their artistic abilities, coloring pumpkins of different colors and styles while Halloween music was heard playing in the background.
“Wellness Wednesday was really fun. I think it’s always a good opportunity to just kind of take some time and do a fun craft and hang out with your friends,” junior Kasey O’Sullivan said. “I really enjoy when the school does them. I feel like there’s always a good activity, and I’ve never really been disappointed.”
Students also had the opportunity to move around and let out some energy by playing cornhole.
If students preferred to be in an inside setting, they could choose the cafeteria and play bingo. Trivia questions were asked by assistant principal Mr. Tom McLaughlin and numbers were called by superintendent Dr. Russell Johnston. Bingo was a phone-free zone, allowing students to fully participate and be engaged in the game. Prizes included hacky sacks, principal Mr. Andrew Benzing’s parking spot for a week, and many other rewards.
Social studies teacher Mrs. Alissa Harvey is the head organizer of Wellness Wednesdays.
“[The main focus is] to build positive connections; student to student, staff to students, and staff to staff,” Harvey said. “And also encouraging positive reinforcement to pro social behaviors and face-to-face behaviors.”
Wellness Wednesdays will continue to run throughout the school year, and students are encouraged to take advantage of the fun activities available in the future.
“It’s just really nice to see you guys out here and outside, and interacting with each other, [during] which is supposed to be one of your breaks [lunch] during the day,” Harvey said.”
