Essex Elementary School Teachers Get A Place To Relax

ESSEX, CT — This year has been a hard one for everyone. Ripe with uncertain times, fear and constant change, the challenges have been many and the remedy; self-care. Teachers at Essex Elementary have been given that gift by a generous donation from the Essex Elementary School Foundation.

The Foundation, which was established in 1996 with a goal, according to its website is "to supplement public education in our community by supporting the school’s strategic vision to engage all students in a rigorous and collaborative education program," has granted the school the necessary funds to turn one space in the school into what they are calling a "wellness room" for staff and teachers. A place to relax, unwind and gather their thoughts; a much-needed task in today's world.

School counselor Marjorie Russell told WTNH News 8, “Our vision was just to create a space where teachers and educators really could take care of themselves.”

The WTNH News 8 story went on to explain that Essex Elementary School Principal Jennifer Tousignant was adamant about adding the space for the teachers and believe it or not, they had applied for a grant before the pandemic began.

“Self-care is so important and in today’s world, with technology, we could be working around the clock,” said Tousignant.

The WTNH story also states that the Essex Foundation granted "thousands of dollars" for the room to be assembled, "From zero gravity chairs to yoga mats, even essential oils and herbal teas. Teachers are encouraged to use the room as often as possible. They even have organized visits from massage therapists to come and provide massages to staff members as part of Wellness Wednesdays."

“If we take care of the adults in the building they will then take good care of the children,” said Tousignant to WTNH News 8.

With reporting from Mackenzie Maynard WTNH News 8.