WORCESTER—Wellness rooms in Worcester’s middle and high schools are seeing significant use, with district officials reporting hundreds of student visits tied largely to behavioral and therapeutic support.
The rooms—designed as calming spaces where students can manage stress, anxiety and emotions—were the focus of a presentation during the Worcester School Committee’s April 16 meeting. Administrative Director of Positive Youth Development Thomas Toney and Director of Culture and Climate Jeff Creamer shared data illustrating how frequently the spaces are being used across the district.
Currently limited to middle and high schools, the rooms allow students to self-regulate, reflect, take breaks and build coping skills. District data shows the majority of visits are for therapeutic or behavioral purposes…