Purpose

The goal of the Wildcat Sanctuary is to help students succeed academically and personally. By increasing student awareness of their stress levels and social-emotional health we can educate students about the many resources available within our campus and district. We can teach them various preventative strategies, activities, and choices they can make to sustain positive mental health.

The Sanctuary aims to offer a safe space to overwhelmed students when there is a need to relax and refocus, practice healthy coping mechanisms, or speak with a counselor. Students now have an on-campus option to visit a supervised environment when they might need to navigate their mental health. The Wildcat Sanctuary aims to reduce the stressors that students are experiencing, which is directly impacting their social and academic growth. Our end goal is to assist students in developing the necessary coping mechanisms to focus on their academics.

Services

• Short-term counseling (Individual/Group Counseling)

• Empowerment/Educational workshops

• Referrals for community resources/support services

• Calming Space for students in distress

• Special interest activities (yoga, mindfulness, art, therapy dogs)

• Classroom/staff presentations

• Coping skills (e.g. deep breathing, coloring, journaling, self regulation, etc).

Important Student Policies

• Upon entering the Wildcat Sanctuary students must check-in and check-out at the kiosk.

• Students must check-in their backpack and cellphone at the front counter to focus on wellness.

• Students will be provided with up to 15 minutes in the wellness center before symptoms are re-assessed, so the student can return to class.