Wellness Spaces For Every Classoom and Every Kid

Every time I ask for money, it’s personal. I don’t lend my talents to causes I don’t feel heart and passion for. But this year—this ask—it goes a bit deeper.

Three and a half years ago, when my dear husband tragically left this world, I found myself lost and unsure of how to move forward.

My beloved babies were suffering too, and the truth is, I had no idea how to help them.

But their teachers and school leaders had tools and resources to offer support—supports I didn’t even know existed how to ask for.

For H, her favorite teacher’s classroom had a small space carved out where she could go anytime during the day. A place where she could feel openly, but privately. That space meant that instead of calling me to come pick her up when her emotions became too much, she could step away, regroup near a trusted adult, and return to learning when she was ready.

For M, a few months into his grief journey, he was welcomed into a safe space where students came together to talk about loss, share feelings, and comfort one another. He never shared exactly what they talked about, but I could tell on the days they met because he came home just a little bit lighter.

These wellness spaces made a huge difference for my children. 

     They protected instruction time. 

     They offered comfort and stability in ways that, at times, I simply could not. 

     They made an unbearable time for our family just a little less terrible.

Today, the San Juan Education Foundation is raising funds to help build these spaces in as many classrooms as possible across our district.

Our students need these supports.

I know from firsthand experience how real life gets in the way of learning. Providing students with safe places to retreat, reflect, regulate, and reset isn’t extra—it’s essential.

Join me in making that a reality.

Thank you.