The Wellness Center at Canyon Hills High School (CHHS) is reinforcing its commitment to student well-being by expanding its staff and refining operational procedures. Led by Wellness Center Coordinator, Danielle Octon, the center has undertaken a student survey during the 2022-2023 academic year to enhance its flow and organization. The valuable feedback collected from local CHHS students has informed strategic improvements, ensuring the center meets the evolving needs of students seeking mental and emotional support. With the addition of new staff members, the Wellness Center is better equipped to provide comprehensive assistance and create a nurturing environment. CHHS students can anticipate a more streamlined experience as the center continues to optimize its services, resulting in a healthier and thriving school community.
The Wellness Center at CHHS, generously bestowed upon the school by the San Diego Unified School District six years ago, stands as a vital resource for students seeking emotional support and respite from the bustling hallways and constant digital stimulation. Spearheading the establishment of this invaluable sanctuary is Wellness Center Coordinator Danielle Octon, whose unwavering commitment to student well-being has been instrumental in its success. Designed as a haven for students overwhelmed by the daily pressures of academic life, Octon has fostered an environment where students can find solace, engage in open conversations, and access resources for emotional support. By providing a safe and tranquil space away from the crowds and screens, Octon’s vision for the Wellness Center aligns perfectly with its purpose of nurturing the holistic well-being of CHHS students, promoting mental health, and fostering a sense of belonging within the school community.
“I wanted to make the Wellness Center a digital detox space, away from all of the screens that we use on a daily basis. And, to separate going to the Wellness Center for emotional needs, versus just a chill place to work.” Octon stated in an interview.
During the 2022-2023 academic year, the CHHS Wellness Center experienced a significant surge in student visits, with a noteworthy shift in the reasons behind these visits. While the Wellness Center had traditionally served as a refuge for emotional support and a tranquil space away from the overwhelming school environment, an increasing number of students sought refuge in the center solely to escape their regular classes. Recognizing the pressing need to address this issue and ensure the center’s intended purpose, Wellness Center Coordinator Danielle Octon took proactive steps. In response to the growing demand and to better manage the situation, Octon made the decision to expand the Rattler staff within the Wellness Center. By adding more dedicated staff members, the center aims to strike a balance between accommodating students seeking legitimate emotional support and providing appropriate guidance for those who may be seeking an escape from their academic responsibilities.
According to Danielle Octon, the Wellness Center at CHHS witnessed an extraordinary increase in student utilization during the 2022-2023 academic year. A staggering total of 29,031 students sought support and guidance from the center, marking a remarkable 2000% surge compared to previous years. In addition to the substantial number of Wellness Center visits, there were 12,415 visits to the on-the-go Pantry, highlighting the vital role it played in addressing students’ basic needs.
“We did our best to provide the basic needs for certain kids.” Octon mentioned. “You would be surprised as to how common it is for students to lack basic needs such as water, clothes that fit, or food.”
The amount of students did have a huge impact on the staff. It caused high stress, which led them to the idea that in order to reduce this issue, they would need extra helping hands. She continued,
“It was stressful, yeah, but we still care about your well-being. I want to make sure you are okay. It’s okay, to not be okay. We are human, and we all have our bad days.”
Danielle Octon and her team continued to prioritize the well-being of those genuinely in need of support, despite the increasing amounts of students and short-staff. Recognizing the challenge of discerning between students seeking legitimate emotional assistance and those attempting to exploit the center to avoid class, Octon and her staff remained vigilant in their efforts. Their commitment to providing genuine care and guidance to students in distress reflects a dedication to maintaining the integrity of the Wellness Center’s purpose.
