Students Form an Inter-School Wellness Connection

Tips for good physical and mental health were passed along from Seaford High School students to their younger counterparts during a series of wellness presentations.

Volunteers from the high school visited seventh grade health classes at Seaford Middle School to educate students on topics such as healthy eating, exercise, bullying and cyberbullying, time management and vaping. Each session included a digital presentation, discussion and an activity. 

High school Assistant Principal Alex Mantay said the idea came from the Wellness Committee, which is comprised of administrators, teachers and pupil personnel services staff. They sought students who would be willing to put together presentations on relatable health topics for middle schoolers. 

Four groups presented over two days. The high school students were paired up based on their areas of interest. 

“Whatever topic they chose is something they felt passionate about presenting,” Mr. Mantay said. “The students really stepped up, as some of these issues can be hard to talk about. If we got through to even just one student that would make it worthwhile.”

Junior Rob Jeranek was part of a group that presented on diet, exercise and vaping. He shared a personal story about how he changed his eating habits and it greatly improved his health.

“It’s great that students get to learn new health tips from people like them,” he said. 

Mr. Mantay said that the presentations were filled with genuine, personal stories. He commended the high school students for opening up to their younger peers and sharing experiences that can benefit others. 

The wellness presentations by the high school students demonstrated numerous Seaford Scholar traits including being communications, networkers, mindful, principled, reflective and risk-takers. Mr. Mantay said the hope is to make these wellness sessions an annual event. He thanked health teachers Kristen Ancona, Ken Botti, Kurt Dankenbrink and Cara Klasson for allowing the high school students to come in and present to their classes.