Toledo students unveil Smart Wellness room as district-level push on mental health

Students and staff on Oct. 28 told the Toledo City Schools Board of Education about a new Smart Wellness room intended to support student mental health and well‑being.

The board heard two videos produced by the district showing how students ‘‘work to make student mental health priority’’ and highlighting the partners who helped establish the space. A presenter said the room is shared by students at Toledo Technology Academy and the Pre‑Med & Health Science School and described it as a place where students can “relax, take a breath” and access resources.

Student representative Alicia Lewandowski, a senior at Wake High School, said the student SMART team is helping plan the wellness room and organizing fundraising, including a cultural‑performance event called “Culture Me” to raise money for decor and training. ‘‘Now that it’s an official club and it’s an official, like, we feel heard,’’ Lewandowski said, adding that student voice has helped raise morale and engagement.

Board members praised the student presenters and the district’s approach to student voice and STEM partnerships. Several members noted visiting STEM events and campus projects, and said the district’s approach positions students for workforce and postsecondary opportunities.

The presentation also included a recognition of staff and volunteers who helped convene the student voice initiative; board members specifically thanked Polly Taylor Kirk and Chris Bartwick for early involvement. The superintendent described the district as a leader in STEM and innovation and congratulated students on recent achievements.

Board members said they valued the respectful, solution‑oriented dialogue with student leaders and encouraged continued collaboration between students, families and district staff to sustain the wellness work.