On January 9, the unfortunate news came that Cindy Tovar, the counselor who ran the Wellness Center, was leaving. While the district is working on finding a replacement, the center remains closed. Until then, what do students actually think about the Wellness Center?
A Space for Relaxation
Many students see the Wellness Center as a helpful resource.
“I think that it’s a nice place to relax, during passing periods and stuff. And not even just like during classes, it gets really stressful if you have a really big test and you’re kind of shaking after it’s just a nice place to chill for a bit,” said Shravani Kurapati (’26).
However, many students are unfamiliar with what the center offers. Several declined to be interviewed due to a lack of experience using it.
Some students believe the Wellness Center is underutilized.
“No, I have never used the wellness center personally, but I don’t think that a lot of people in the school use it as well. Yeah, I mean not a lot of people use it, if that’s what you’re asking. I think more people should,” said Kaique Espinola (’26).
What the Wellness Center Offers
The Wellness Center provided many resources. According to the Counseling website, students could draw, do origami, journal, meditate, and practice yoga. It also offered water, tea, and snacks. During Access periods, the center hosted craft workshops like Coloring & Cocoa and Vision Board creation.
“I remember there was the HEART program, I went in for a few meetings. It was just nice because it was just me and a whole bunch of girls talking,” said Shravani.
As of January 17, Vice Principal Andrea Medrano said the staff do not know when exactly there will be a replacement for Ms. Tovar. The district is handling the hiring process. Once a new counselor is in place, students will hopefully take full advantage of the Wellness Center and all it has to offer.
