February 11, 2025, Lancaster ISD/Lancaster, TX -- Lancaster ISD took a bold step toward prioritizing staff well-being with the launch of its Staff Wellness Initiative, designed to support mental, physical, and financial wellness.
“We surveyed our staff and the responses showed they wanted us to help them in the areas of physical, social/emotional, and financial wellness,” said Dr. Antionette Mathews, director of Lancaster ISD’s Wraparound Services.
Once survey responses were received, Dr. Mathews assembled staff members to create a steering committee to provide resources and support to meet the expressed needs. The first mission of the committee was to host a launch event to inform staff members about the initiative.
“We have a steering committee that volunteered their time to pull resources, reach out to vendors, and pull this together for our staff so that we can make sure that we help meet their needs,” Dr. Mathews stated.
The kick-off event featured engaging activities, resources, physical competitions, and tools designated to support prioritized areas of wellness.
“We have more than 60 wellness vendors, that are here to let our Lancaster ISD employees know how they can be of service to them,” said Dr. Mathews. “We also have campus competitions with tug of war, obstacle courses, and sack races.
In addition to the campus competitions, there were also card games, line dancing, and extreme hip-hop cardio.
“With the success of this event, staff members will be more open to these types of activities on a regular basis,” said Yvonne Thornton, executive director of School Leadership and Campus Support. “When we start talking about self-care and health and wellness, it’s not just about the things can do at home to take care of yourself, but ways to do it while we are on campus here in the district.”
The initiative aligns with Lancaster ISD’s commitment to fostering a culture of self-care, acknowledging the critical role that educators and staff play in shaping student success. Monthly steering committee members will provide staff members with access to activities, expert guidance, and tools as the district aims to ensure that its staff members feel valued, supported, and equipped to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
