SPS Monthly Wellness Tips: Three Goals for 2024-2025

Throughout the year, we will be sharing information and resources on sleep (physical wellness), play (social wellness), and presence (emotional wellness). Here are some helpful strategies for you!

• Sleep: The general guidance is clear: put down your phone before bed. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends getting off screens at least 30 minutes to an hour before bed to reduce digital disruptions and get better sleep. This can be hard! Use these recommendations from NPR’s Life Kit to learn how to create better boundaries with your electronic devices at bedtime.

• Play: Take advantage of the fall weather and engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, apple picking, or visiting a pumpkin patch.

• Presence: Explore local community events or festivals happening in your area. Many towns host fall-themed events, which can be a great opportunity to socialize and have fun.

  

Walktober 2024

It is almost time for Walktober 2024! Registration for Walktober is open and closes on September 30th. Walktober will begin on October 1st and will end on October 31st. Compete for bragging rights, prizes, and increase your daily steps! As with previous years, you can compete as an individual or create a team with up to 5 people per team. Each person will need to register through the chamber whether you are competing as an individual or on a team.

We hope you can join us and happy walking! Click this link to register.

Election Anxiety

The lead-up to election day can be a challenging time, filled with heightened emotions. Constant media coverage and debates in the home and on social platforms all have the potential to make a negative impact on our mental health. Our concerns about how the results of the election will affect our lives and society also become much more real, which can be scary. When it comes down to it, election anxiety is rooted in our need for safety and security; and a feeling that our future is in good hands. Here are a few suggestions to help:

• Unplug when you can: Being constantly faced with loads of digital information, particularly on political issues, can lead to increased stress levels. Studies show that frequent social media users report higher stress due to political discussions.

• Engage in Creative Outlets: Spend time on hobbies or creative activities to distract from election stress.

• Seek Professional Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals if feelings of anxiety become overwhelming. Use the new SPS Employee Assistance Plan (EAP); they provide text therapy, in person therapy, group therapy, and more. Visit www.supportlinc.com and use group code: stillwaterschools or call 1-800-475-3327  

• Focus on the Positive: Celebrate small victories and engage in community activities that foster connection and optimism.

• Vote! Remember that participating in the voting process can empower you and foster a sense of agency, contributing positively to your overall well-being!

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Finding breast cancer early is key to successful treatment. This month aims to encourage regular screenings, educate others on signs and symptoms, and share resources on preventing and navigating breast cancer. For more information on National Breast Cancer Awareness Month or breast cancer, visit nationalbreastcancer.org. 

Important: Breast cancer screening can help find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women who are 40 to 74 years old and are at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every 2 years. 

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

We use this month as a time to raise awareness of domestic violence and its impact on individuals and families. The National Domestic Violence Hotline gives our community access to 24/7 tools and support.

Healthy Habits and SPS Flu Shots

Get your FREE flu shot! Foster Corner Drug is planning to hold a Vaccination Clinic at SPS on October 1-3. Refer to the email from Jacklyn Ahrens for more information. 

Core prevention strategies are important steps you can take to protect yourself and others from respiratory viruses. To stay informed, visit this site for the latest updates on influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 surveillance data obtained from the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) respiratory surveillance system. Weekly reports will be published by 10 am every Thursday throughout the influenza season. Weekly reporting resumes on October 12, 2023, for the 2023-2024 season.

The Dietitians Dish: Better For You Monte Cristo Sandwich Contributed by SPS Nutrition Director Krista Neal, MS, RD/LD, SNS

A traditional Monte Cristo is turkey, ham, swiss cheese on a sandwich that is then dipped in batter, deep fried, sprinkled with powdered sugar, and served with jam. Maybe not the best for us, and really, who wants to deep fry at home? 

This sandwich is better than the sum of its parts. The sturdy bread, paired with the smokey cheese, and tartness and crunchy apple paired with the eggy crust make a perfect sandwich. Adapted from Rachel Ray’s original 30-Minute Meals cookbook. 

• Eggs

• Dash of nutmeg

• Dash of pepper

• Dash of milk or cream

• English toasting bread (Strong sourdough bread will work almost as well) 

• Sliced ham, turkey or both -packaged lunch meat or thick sliced deli meat work. 

• Smoked cheddar - the smokiness really makes a difference 

• Granny smith apples - You want a bright green, tart apple

For each sandwich scramble one egg in a large bowl or shallow pan such as a cake or pie pan. Add a couple of shakes of nutmeg and pepper. Mix in a dash of milk, cream, or half and half. Don’t cook the eggs. (Ask why I know this step needs to be clearly stated.)

Slice the apple as thin as you can. Make a sandwich by layering bread, cheese, apple, ham/turkey, cheese, bread. It will hold together best this way. 

Heat a pan with non-stick cooking spray, or butter. 

Dip the sandwich in the egg mix. You’re basically making sandwich French toast. Cook the sandwich until the egg is cooked on all sides.  

Slice diagonally. Trust me, it tastes better on the diagonal. 

Prevention Grant Updates Christina Bibbs, SPS Prevention and Wellness Grant Coordinator

In August, Stillwater Public Schools purchased digital licenses from The Responsive Counselor for all of our elementary counselors to access teaching resources. The district also purchased Bal-A-Vis-X for several counselors to use with students. Find out more about Bal-A-Vis-X here.

Stillwater Public Schools purchased supplies for October’s two-day seventh-grade prevention event in September. These supplies will help the district’s substance abuse counselor teach about the dangers of vaping and smoking tobacco. 

The district collaborated again this year with MadScience to orchestrate Anti-Vape and Tobacco Presentations for all fifth-grade classes. This 1-hour workshop is hands-on, inquiry-based learning that is fun! We study the respiratory and circulatory systems, see a real lung in action, and learn the dangers of vaping and smoking. Thank you to the SPS Substance Abuse Counselor (Rachel May), as well as the SPS school counselors for all of their work on these important prevention efforts!

The Red Ribbon Campaign is the largest drug abuse prevention campaign in the United States. To prepare for Red Ribbon Week in October, the district purchased items to give to students at all school sites. 

We also purchased various wellness posters from CareerTech Printing to spread awareness of mental health resources for staff, students, and families. If you would like posters at your building, please contact [email protected]

Upcoming Events

• Ongoing Fall Wellness Events

  • Open Play Pickleball: Wednesdays 7-9 PM. Learn more and register here.

  • FREE Yoga in the Plaza: Mondays through October 14 at The McKnight Center 

  • FREE Fall Yoga at the OSU Botanical Garden. This free yoga class occurs on Mondays in September and October. All levels of yoga practice are welcome. Just bring water and a mat (or towel) to practice on and get ready to relax in nature.

• October 12: Eskimo Joe's Juke Joint Jog

  • Learn more here. 

• October 12: SPS Hispanic Heritage Event 

• Fall Break: Go on a day trip!! Check out the Day Trips from Travel Oklahoma

• October 20: Stillwater FFA 7th Annual Cans 4 Community 5K Race

• October 26: Orange Dirt-Trail Series Race at Lake McMurtry 

  • Learn more and register here. 

• October 29: Downtown Stillwater Halloween Events, 5-8 pm

• Pumpkin Painting at the OSU Botanic Garden

  • Bring your little ones for a great day of pumpkin painting and walk around the beautiful Botanic Garden. 3-5 pm; learn more here. 

 

SPS Monthly Wellness Tips: Three Goals for 2024-2025

Wellness encompasses several dimensions: physical, intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual, and so forth. People often think about wellness in terms of physical health (nutrition, exercise, weight management, etc.), but it is so much more. 

Throughout this school year, we will be sharing information and resources on sleep (physical wellness), play (social wellness), and presence (emotional wellness). Here are some helpful strategies for you!

• Sleep: Here are some tips for a better nighttime routine:

  • Consider activities such as reading a book, journaling, or meditating to help unwind. 

  • Set appropriate alarms to lie down and wake up.

  • Refrain from using your phone while in bed.

• Play: Here are some tips for families of all ages to play together in the warm weather:

  • Plan a family camping trip and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

  • Organize a friendly sports tournament in your yard or a nearby park.

  • Explore local trails for bike rides or relaxing walks. Research Stillwater Trail Crew‘s Facebook page for trail ideas.

• Presence: Here are some tips on how to be fully present and in the moment:

  • Put away electronic devices during quality time

  • When having conversations, make an effort to listen

  • Acknowledge and appreciate the special moments

TSET Grants

The TSET Healthy Incentive Grants encourage schools and communities to adopt and implement best and promising practices to improve the health and quality of life for their residents and students. Grant funds can be used for a variety of projects that support healthy and active living such as walking trails, farmers market venues, splasH pads, basketball courts, and outdoor playground and exercise equipment. 

Healthy Incentive Grants for Schools: Fall application September 3 - September 30. If you are interested in applying for a grant, consider talking to your principal, PE teacher, or counselor. Click here to learn more and apply!

Fall Fit City Challenge 

Sign up today for a minute-tracking fitness challenge as a Stillwater Public Schools team player! This free and friendly Oklahoma competition will allow SPS  employees to track their fitness minutes and goals. After signing up, you can visit here to track your minutes or download their app to track minutes on your mobile device. The challenge officially kicks off on Sep

tember 1st! Join the SPS team today and recruit your coworkers!

All types of activities count - walks with the dog, family bike rides, a yoga session, roller skating, gardening - if you’re active, you’re in. If you need more info, download the Fit City Challenge Toolkit today. Follow them on Facebook for fun giveaways and Fall Fit City Challenge highlights!

Stillwater’s New Prevention and Wellness Grant Coordinator

Crissy Bibbs was hired last Spring, but officially started in late July. Crissy comes to SPS with a strong background in elementary education, including experience as a 504 coordinator, school counselor, classroom teacher, and state testing coordinator. She will oversee both of our large grants focused on substance abuse prevention and mental health.

Her goal is to implement an evidence-based curriculum or program for substance abuse prevention/mental health for students district-wide to ensure equitable and consistent delivery across all schools. 

If you have questions about how grant money is supporting our district, or if you would like to meet with her to discuss involvement in the prevention and wellness grant committee, please feel free to reach out to her through email at [email protected]

EAP + Care Solace

We are pleased to introduce two new wellness programs to support your well-being. First, our new Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers confidential counseling and resources to help you navigate life's challenges. Additionally, we recently launched Care Solace, a service that connects SPS students and families with mental health care providers. Both programs are here to ensure our entire SPS community has the support we need to thrive, both personally and professionally. 

• Employee Assistance Program (For Staff)

  • Everyone faces problems or situations that are difficult to resolve. We know there are times when everyone needs a little extra help. For employees who may need assistance to overcome issues interfering with their ability to function in the workplace, SPS offers up to five visits through SupportLinc, our EAP provider. SupportLinc offers expert guidance to help you and your family address and resolve everyday issues. 

  • To learn more about the Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), please visit www.supportlinc.com and use group code: stillwaterschools or call 1-800-475-3327

• Care Solace (For Students and Families) 

  • Our students, staff, and their families can use Care Solace to connect quickly with our community's verified mental health and substance use treatment providers. 

  • To access Care Solace, Call: 888-515-0595

  • Their multilingual helpline is staffed 24/7/365.

  • Visit www.caresolace.com/stillwater to explore mental health providers independently, or click "Book Appointment" for personalized assistance.

Mental Health-focused Apps for Educators

We talked about this last spring, but we just want to remind staff about these apps for educators…

The Headspace App is free for educators; sign up here. Headspace offers free access to K-12 teachers and support staff. Whether you’re feeling inspired to connect more with your students or looking for a new way to bring calm to your classroom, Headspace can help students build healthy habits that last a lifetime. Better focus, less stress, and happier thoughts are just a few minutes away. Headspace is proven to reduce stress by 14% in just 10 days. It can also help you relax your mind in minutes, improve focus, and get the best sleep ever.

Simple Habit knows life can be challenging sometimes. That’s why it offers simple five-minute meditations to help ease your mind. The app lets you personalize your experience and choose interests that matter to you—whether it’s increased focus, productivity, fitness, or more—and then allows you to choose from various short meditation practices. The app is perfect for busy people on the go, who, at a moment's notice, can pop in their earbuds and find respite, relaxation, advice, or healing.  

Calm is one of the most popular apps for meditation, relaxation, and getting some much-needed sleep. It’s also now free for educators. Teachers in K-12 classrooms can now get free access to Calm’s paid subscription service and a library chock-full of guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and soothing tunes to keep you feeling present and blissful or put you to bed. Through the Calm Students Initiative, teachers can also opt-in to receive best practices for introducing mindfulness to the classroom.

Upcoming Events

• Wednesdays 7-9 PM: Open Play Pickleball

  • Stillwater Indoor Pickleball Club: learn more and register here. 

• Saturdays: Stillwater Farmers Market

  • 8AM -12PM

• Thursdays: Troubadour Thursdays 

  • 7:30 PM: Open to anyone interested in sharing their music or just listening. This local singer-songwriter showcase takes place at 7:30 pm on the first Thursday of every month in room 121 (just south of the auditorium) of the Stillwater Community Center. 1st Thursday every month, Singer/Songwriters get mic time, free and open to the public!

• September 5: Free Computer Basics Workshop at the Stillwater Public Library

  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

• September 9-October 14: FREE Fall Yoga in the Garden 

  • 5:45 PM at the Botanic Garden at OSU

• September 10: Free Tuesday Gardening Series: Winterize Your Garden

  • 6:00 PM at the Botanic Garden at OSU

• 

  September 17: National Voter Registration Day!!

• September 19: Let’s Talk About It Free Book Reading and Discussion 

  • 6:30 PM at the Stillwater History Museum at the Sheerar; find out more here. 

• September 20: Deadline to register for the Stillwater FFA 7th Annual Cans 4 Community 5K Race

  • Visit this website to find additional event information and register - https://www.stillwaterschools.com/Page/516

• September 28: Free StillWonder Learn through Play Popup

  • 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Botanic Garden at OSU in the new Horticulture Education Center

SPS Monthly Wellness Tips: Three Wellness Goals for 2023-2024

Can you believe it? We are in the last month of the 23-24 school year, and this means it is our last month of this year's focus on movement, connections, and work-life balance. This doesn't mean that we will be placing any less of a focus on these three issues next school year, but we certainly might have some new goals to focus on (of course, while still being intentional about these very important goals). Here are the recommendations for this month! 

Movement: Take part in “Walk This May!” This month, whether you participate in the official challenge or not (read more below), follow these tips to get your steps in.

• Grab a co-worker and take a walk before or after school, or on a quick break in your day.
• Find a pretty, peaceful location near you to explore during the weekends. This might be a lake, mountain trail, a park, public garden, etc.
• Walk to the farthest printer, park far away, take the stairs, etc.
• March in place during your favorite show.
• Stand up: turn phone calls into an opportunity to stretch your legs.
• Put some pep in your steps and dance while you walk! Follow along with this 12 Minute Pop Walk or a Walk at Home option for inspiration.

Connections: Looking for something to do with others? Whether you want to meet someone new, plan something with a colleague, or go somewhere with a friend or family, check out this list of *all* of the things. From live music, to art exhibits, to the *check’s notes* the 4th Annual Oklahoma Mini-Silky Fainting Goat Show or the *check’s notes again* “Rabbit Posse of Oklahoma Show”... you can find it all at VisitStillwater.org 

Work-Life Balance: As the school year winds down, the month of May is extremely busy with banquets, class parties, sports, concerts, and all the end-of-year celebrations. Sometimes it seems like there is a never ending list of things to do and places to be. Remember to take some downtime for yourself so you do not crash and burn at the end of the year. It can often be difficult to decompress at the end of a school year when the day-to-day responsibilities of the classroom are not present. This is completely normal, and it can take some time to settle into a new routine. Whatever your plans are for this summer, try to take some time to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Teacher Appreciation Week

We appreciate all you do for Stillwater Public Schools and for our students. Be on the lookout for information about TAW freebies and discounts in the Stillwater community!

Walk This May

It's that time of year again and Walk This May is here! This is a community-wide step challenge that will take place throughout the month of May. This is a great opportunity to not just add more movement into our days, but also to work together as a team and build social connections. Walking has been proven to improve cardiovascular health, improve cognitive function, and even reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety.

To register for this challenge, visit ChallengeRunner: https://www.challengerunner.com/enroll/8e34mp-4k1c

Any questions regarding the event can be directed to Sarah Gold at [email protected]. 

Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health has consistently been at the forefront of wellness conversations for the past few years, and 2024 is no exception. This month allows us the opportunity to increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being and provide resources and information to support individuals and communities who may need mental health support. This May, let’s work together to make our schools, homes, and communities better spaces for improved mental health. 

SPS has several exciting things in store for Mental Health Awareness Month, and we hope you participate. Check out this site for more information. Please use the May Mental Health Calendar in your classroom, at home, or solo! 

Finally, check out the free resources from Headspace for school staff and mental health month. Here is a message from Headspace: This Mental Health Awareness Month, we're focusing on ways people can prioritize their workplace well-being. Because when we strengthen our ability to manage stress, well-being, and boundaries on the job, we end up feeling happier everywhere else. Explore our Mental Health Matters collection for tips on outsmarting burnout, communicating your boundaries, and creating a more compassionate world to live and work in. Access the collection here. 

Employee Health & Fitness Day

May 15th is Employee Health and Fitness Day and serves as an opportunity to raise awareness on the necessity and benefits of physical activity for employees. Over 80% of all U.S. jobs are sedentary, and sedentary lifestyles increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and osteoporosis. Lack of time and opportunity for movement, fresh air, and mindfulness practices also contribute to the development of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety and worsens symptoms of existing conditions. This May, let’s set the example of prioritizing employee health in intentional, consistent, and meaningful ways. Not sure where to start? Visit the OSU Employee Wellness Resource Library for more ideas. Get up, get out, and MOVE!

Farmer's Market

Embracing Creativity: Celebrating the Seasonal Bounty at Stillwater Farmers Market, retrieved from the Stillwater Farmers Market

As we step into the vibrant month of May, we anticipate the colorful bounty that our beloved market will soon showcase. Picture-perfect arrays of vegetables, jams, jellies, meats, and more are soon to grace our stalls, painting our community with the hues of freshness and flavor. But until then, let's celebrate the beauty of simplicity and creativity with the seasonal treasures we currently have at hand. Let's embrace the essence of now by incorporating the treasures we have into our meals, transforming them into culinary masterpieces. Imagine the magic we can create by infusing locally sourced ingredients into our dishes, utilizing the diversity of flavors and textures available to us. From hearty stews to refreshing salads, the possibilities are endless. Let's explore the art of being creative with our culinary endeavors, experimenting with new combinations and techniques to craft dishes that truly reflect the spirit of the season. As we eagerly await the abundance of colors and flavors that will soon grace our market, let's revel in the joy of creating something extraordinary out of the ordinary. Join us every Saturday at the Stillwater Farmers Market, where community spirit meets culinary delight.  Below is a recipe that would be sure to be a nice change to a classic side dish! For more recipes you can check out the Stillwater Farmers Market website page! Reminder!!!! You can shop with us every Wednesday and Saturday in front of the Prairie Arts Center from 8 AM to 1 PM. We hope to see everyone there!!!!!

Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut in 3/4-inch chunks

• 5 large garlic cloves

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 7 to 8 ounces garlic-and-herb goat cheese, at room temperature, such as Montrachet

• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature 

• 1 1/2 cups sour cream

• 1/2 cup half-and-half or milk

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place the potatoes, garlic and 1 tablespoon salt in a large pot with enough water to cover the potatoes. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, until very tender.

Drain the potatoes and garlic and process them together through a food mill fitted with the coarsest blade set on top of a bowl. While the potatoes are still hot, stir in the goat cheese, butter, sour cream, half-and-half, 4 teaspoons salt and 2 teaspoons pepper until smooth.

Pour the mixture into a 9-by-12-by-2-inch oval baking dish, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the Parmesan on top and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until lightly browned. Serve hot.

Cook’s Note

Make it ahead: Assemble the dish, including the parmesan, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Bake before serving.

Mental Health Apps for Educators 

The Headspace App is free for educators; sign up here. Headspace offers free access to K-12 (primary-secondary) teachers and support staff. Whether you’re feeling inspired to connect more with your students or you’re looking for a new way to bring calm to your classroom, Headspace can help students build healthy habits that last a lifetime. Better focus, less stress, and happier thoughts are just a few minutes away. Headspace is proven to reduce stress by 14% in just 10 days. It can also help you relax your mind in minutes, improve focus, and get the best sleep ever.

Simple Habit knows life can be challenging sometimes. That’s why it offers simple five-minute meditations to help ease your mind. The app lets you personalize your experience and choose interests that matter to you--whether it’s increased focus, productivity, fitness, and more--and then allows you to choose from various short meditation practices. The app is perfect for busy people on the go, who, at a moment's notice, can pop in their earbuds and find respite, relaxation, advice, or healing.  

The Calm App is of the most popular apps for meditation, relaxation, and getting some much-needed shut-eye. It’s also now free for educators. Teachers in K-12 classrooms can now get free access to Calm’s paid subscription service and access a library chock-full of guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and soothing tunes to keep you feeling present, blissful, or put you to bed. Through the Calm Students Initiative, teachers can also opt in to receive best practices to introduce mindfulness to the classroom as well.

Simple, effective, and free, Breathing Zone, helps guide you to a calmer state. Through using your phone's microphone, the app detects your breathing rate and automatically sets your target breathing rate and works with you to gradually reduce it. The Breathing Zone is a great option for those looking to lower blood pressure or quickly manage moments of stress and anxiety in minutes. 

Upcoming Events:

• May 4: Cinco de Mayo Pepper Run 
  • This is a 1 mile, 5k, 10k, 15k and half-marathon run at Boomer Lake. For more information, click here. 
• May 6, 13, 20, 27: Yoga in the Plaza at the McKnight Center
  • This free class is open to all levels of yoga experience. More info here. 
• May 8: National Bike and Roll to School Day!
  • To learn more, click here. 
• May 10: Concert in the Garden at the Botanic Garden at OSU. 5:45-7:30
• May 18: Stillwater Farmers Market Super Saturday, Nature’s Vein
  • Nature's Vein is a wildlife rescue who strives to create a bond between man and nature. They will be at the market from 9 AM to 11AM, May 18th for our second Super Saturday of the Year!
• May 24: All Stillwater area Splash Pads Open! 
• June 6-9: Dancing Turtle Festival 
  • Whether your passion is the visual arts, music, dancing, theater, film or the industrial arts, this festival has something for you! Dancing Turtle is a gathering that immerses its guests in the arts; it is a gathering that honors and highlights the breadth, depth and history of regional and global cultures. There are several free opportunities to learn more about music, film, the arts, and more. Learn more here.

 

Support Employees of the Year

Congratulations to our Support Employees of the Year. 

• Brooke Brunken - High Needs Counselor (District Wide) - Special Services
• Misty Horne - Principal's Secretary (SHS) - Office / Clerical 
• Elsie Hockensmith - Custodian (Highland Park) - Custodial
• Marie Brown - Cafeteria Manager (Will Rogers) - Child Nutrition
• Gary Moffitt - Bus Driver - Transportation
• Dillon Henry - Computer Specialist I - District Support (Facilities / Technology)
• Tracy Wright - Library Media Assistant (SJHS) - Educational Support