As of July 31, construction has begun on the outdoor portion of Bayport-Blue Point High School’s wellness center. The indoor portion was unveiled earlier this year on Feb. 9, also known as P.S. I Love You Day, to highlight the center’s purpose in supporting students’ social, emotional and mental health needs.
The district recognized the growing mental health needs of its students and implemented various mental health initiatives throughout the past couple of years. This space is the physical culmination of these efforts and acts as a haven of comfort and support for students. “Since the wellness center opened its doors in February, the room has been used daily, either by individual students, groups of students, classes or clubs, and we’re hoping that will carry on with the outdoor space,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Timothy P. Hearney said.
Inside, the space offers comfortable seating areas, tables, offices for the school’s psychologist and social worker, board games, soft music and more. The outdoor portion will be an extension of this space, offering a sensory garden, labyrinth walk, shade trees, a trellis/arbor, paths and benches. This addition will enhance the beauty and tranquility of the space and is meant to instill a sense of calm to students as they cope with stress.
“We know that when we reduce stress, we allow room for other feelings such as acceptance, openness and belonging,” Dr. Hearney said. “This dedicated space is for everyone to enjoy. The center is for open conversations, connections and empathy. By fostering understanding and compassion, we create a community where seeking help provides our strength.”
The district would like to thank the community for their support and several community members who have donated toward the initiative. The school will host an official opening for the outdoor portion of the wellness center when it’s completed this upcoming fall.
