Chautauqua Lake Central School students are pictured playing volleyball during the school’s recent Winter Wellness Day.

MAYVILLE – Chautauqua Lake Central School recently hosted its annual Wellness Day organized by the CLCS Wellness Team in collaboration with community partners.

Wellness Day featured a variety of interactive sessions designed to nurture both the body and mind. Students participated in mindfulness exercises, hands-only CPR training, healthy eating workshops, self-defense lessons and fitness introductions. The event also included engaging activities like karaoke, a scavenger hunt, and the “Pencil Olympics.” Additionally, students got a sneak peek at the school’s upcoming musical, Hadestown: Teen Edition.

“Wellness can be so many different things–from walking, sports, nutrition, and the arts to meditation and relaxation,” said Stephanie Janicki, a secondary school teacher. “I love interacting with my students in a very different way, and the smiles were endless.”

Teachers and community members alike reinforced the importance of Wellness Day as a time to instill healthy habits in students.

“Wellness Day was a fun opportunity to make healthy protein balls with students and teach them about the importance of not just nourishing their bodies, but empowering them to fuel their minds, embrace wellness, and build strong habits for success,” said Lindsey Boyle, a secondary school teacher.

Beyond Wellness Day, students at Chautauqua Lake are staying active throughout the winter season in their physical education classes. The school’s own campus trails serve as the perfect setting for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, allowing students to build strength, balance, and endurance while embracing the outdoors.

Before venturing onto the trails, students learn essential equipment techniques to ensure they are prepared for the winter activities. These sports not only promote cardiovascular fitness but also teach teamwork and resilience–essential skills for both athletics and life.

“The seventh through 12th grade students worked hard during our cardio and basic fitness sessions. What a wonderful day and great exposure to healthy habits,” said Shannon Rowe, community partner.

Students also embraced the opportunity to engage in activities that prioritized well-being.

Freshman Lucas Horvath enjoyed the break from classes, saying, “Wellness Day is great because it’s fun, it gives us a break from our classes, and it keeps us active.” Sophomore Eden Ludwig appreciated the chance to participate in something different, adding, “Giving students a break from their daily routine is always nice. My favorite part of Wellness Day this year was the Pencil Olympics.” Junior Gracie Gerring highlighted the mental health benefits of the event: “This gives us a mental break from school, sports, and our everyday lives. It’s really relaxed, not high pressure, and we get to interact with people we don’t normally see.”