MHARS Board grant helps fund ‘zen’ rooms in schools

Coloring, journaling and a quiet atmosphere tend to lead to a feeling of zen.

And no one knows the need for the feeling of zen more than school officials, according to a news release from Oberlin City Schools.

In a world full of the unknown associated with the novel coronavirus pandemic, schools are seeing more students suffering both socially and emotionally, said Jay Nimene, director of Student and Family Support for Oberlin Schools.

On Feb. 2, Nimene announced the Mental Health, Addiction and Recovery Services (MHARS) Board is funding a $19,591 grant for the construction of a zen room in each of the district’s schools, the release related.

“The zen room will be used by students when in crisis, displaying soft lighting, comfortable seating and foldable chairs for group sessions and activity books, journals, sensory tools and resources to help in managing emotions,” he said.

Nimene said the creation of the zen rooms will begin once the items become available.

The grant also will allow for implementation of evidence-based social, emotional learning programming “WhyTry” to include students’ materials, as well as programming to include wellness staff incentives and professional development, the release said.

The additional funding will allow for family programming over the duration of four wellness family nights, Nimene said.

“The grant awarded to Oberlin City Schools by the MHARS Board allows for the continued support to students and families,” he said. “Our students and families have endured a lot of hardships since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This grant will allow for us to offer a safe haven for students who wish to find a place of zen. But, more importantly, it will assist in providing the tools and resources to help those who are suffering socially and emotionally.”