PAL-MAC HEALTH & WELLNESS

WHO WE ARE

The Palmyra-Macedon Central School District Wellness Committee plans, promotes and implements a culture of well-being among our employees to encourage a happy and healthy lifestyle. From fitness challenges to mental health resources, we’re building a culture that puts people first. Because caring for our team isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s how we create a stronger, more connected school community.

WHAT'S HAPPENING @ PAL-MAC?

Pal-Mac Wellness Newsletter.pdf

March's theme, Feelings Follow Your Focus, reminds us that where we place our attention shapes how we feel. Small, intentional shifts in focus can influence mood, perspective, and resilience in meaningful ways.

This month’s FLASHP Wellness Newsletter includes:

NatureRX 2.0 & Nature as Medicine Registration - A 21-day guided progression outdoors with structured weekly touchpoints and an optional virtual fireside chat on March 24th at 7 PM, with Dr. Darren Morton and Lynne Boucher, exploring nature’s role in well-being. REGISTER HERE!
Smola Speaker Series Registration - Join NFL sports dietitian Jordan Mazur on March 18th from 3:30-4:30 PM for a practical conversation on preserving muscle and staying strong through life’s transitions.
Middle Finger 5K Registration - Take part in a sunrise event supporting adults in cancer treatment across the Finger Lakes, with a $15 discount for FLASHP members and household dependents. Discount codes are limited, so we encourage you to register early to secure your spot and savings.
Micro-Action of the Month, Feelings Follow Your Focus - Once each day, intentionally shift your focus toward something constructive, calming, or life-giving.
Lift Project - Access Enjoy year-round access to science-backed lessons designed to build resilience and sustainable well-being habits.

Read the Full March Newsletter HERE

Wishing you a steady and intentional March,

~ Pal-Mac Wellness Team

2026 Middle Finger 5K

As we look toward our 2026 Middle Finger 5K, we are expanding our mission to reflect the true strength of our Red Raider family. This year, we are running and walking in support of all Pal-Mac families who have a loved one battling cancer.

We carry this mission forward in honor of our colleague, Tane. His journey inspired us to start this team, and in his honor, we want to ensure that every family in our District facing a similar fight knows they have a community standing behind them.

We invite you to join our team, "Pal-Mac United," to show our collective solidarity.

Event Details

When: May 9th, 2026 at 6:00 AM
Where: Finger Lakes Welcome Center (35 Lakefront Dr., Geneva, NY)
Beneficiary: Thrive to Survive, providing direct support to those navigating cancer.

The course is walker and runner friendly for all ability levels. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just want to walk the lakefront with colleagues, we want you there!

How to Join: REGISTER BEFORE MARCH 27

Note: FLASHP members and household dependents receive a $15 discount. Codes are limited—secure yours by March 20!

Get the Gear: The Wellness Team is providing FREE "Pal-Mac United" t-shirts to all employees.

Action Required: After registering for the race, Fill out this Google Form to claim your shirt.

MAPLE WEEKEND @ EMBERS RISING FARM

Come visit the Embers Rising Farm for MAPLE WEEKEND. March 21-22 and 28-29. Admission is FREE!

March Wellbeing Webinar Flyer - EX .pdf

MARCH WELLBEING WEBINAR: FOOD AS MEDICINE

Join Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Registered Dietitian Kathryn Townsend on Thursday, March 26 at Noon for a FREE Webinar: “Food as Medicine: Nourish Your Body, Transform Your Health”. This topic focuses on how the right foods—and the intentional choices we make each day—can help us thrive, not just survive. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

April Wellbeing Webinar Flyer.pdf

APRIL WELLBEING WEBINAR: REST TO BE YOUR BEST

Join Excellus BlueCross BlueShield medical director, Tamara Prull, M.D. on Thursday, Thursday, April 30 at Noon for a FREE Webinar: “Rest to be your best:

The connection between sleep and your health”. This session will explore how improving your sleep habits can positively impact your long-term health, productivity, and overall quality of life.. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

NATURE Rx 2.0

NatureRX 2.0 is a thoughtful reinvention of last year’s program. While the format has evolved, the goal remains the same: to spend intentional time outdoors each day for 21 consecutive days.

Program Design:

NatureRX 2.0 runs for 21 days, with a weekly progression in time outdoors.

Week 1: 20 minutes outdoors each day
Week 2: 40 minutes outdoors each day
Week 3: 60 minutes outdoors each day

Weekly Immersions and Fireside Chats will also be part of the program. For more information, visit the Smola March Newsletter or CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

THE LIFT PROJECT

Over the next 10 months, we’ll be rolling out The Lift Project—a flexible journey to boost your well-being. Each month brings a new theme, paired with simple actions, mini challenges, wellness programs, community events, virtual keynotes, and practical activities you can actually use. Sign up by the end of October and be entered into a raffle for a prize. Ready to jump in? REGISTER HERE.

If you have any questions, please email Deborah.Matzan@palmaccsd.org.

Menopause & Midlife Wellness

Wellbeing Tips from Excellus BlueCross BlueShield

Midlife brings change—from menopause to parenting shifts and aging parents. Prioritize your health, joy, and connection. Discover tips for self-care, preventive care, and emotional wellbeing, plus resources from Excellus to support your journey. Empower yourself through transition and thrive in every stage of life. Your wellbeing matters—start here to learn more.

We’re looking forward to another amazing year of wellness, growth, and connection across our school community.

YOUR WELLNESS COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Staci Santelli, Deborah Matzan, Ralph Brongo, Christine Horton, Laura Kubasiewicz, Amanda Lesterhuis, Heidi Murray, Joanna Meyer, Christine Moulton, and Michael Yates.

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