The newly launched Kindness Club, a new student organization dedicated to spreading compassion, is one of the many new resources at Olive Middle School aimed at fostering a supportive community and outlet for student wellness. In this inaugural year, there are 12 students in the club who create positive posters and signs around campus.
“I really like leading the Kindness Club, it's a good thing to be a part of,“ said Olive Middle School Kindness Club student leader Destiny Garcia.
Another club available for student support is the Where Everybody Belongs (W.E.B) club, a student organization for upperclassmen to support new sixth graders. This club focuses on making new students feel welcomed and supported across various moments from the first day of school and other milestones along the way.
In addition, the school has expanded its library offerings to provide a welcoming space for students to gather. New ceramic chess sets, and board games are available for students to use during lunch. This addition not only encourages strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, but also inspires social interaction and friendly competition.
“This is a really positive area, especially for new students to make new friends,” said Olive Middle School Academic Counselor Johana Lopez.
The ceramic chess sets are handmade and donated by one of their very own teachers Erika Silva. The library is also home to occasional art contests and artistic opportunities hosted by school librarian Nikki Bustamante.
Recognizing the importance of mental health and emotional well-being, Olive Middle has also continued to update its student services center. The expanded resources and support services include fidget and soothing tools, a calming corner, supportive signs, positive reading resources, stuffed animals, and more. These resources aim to provide students with a safe space to discuss their concerns, seek guidance, and develop coping strategies.
"I am grateful to our staff for their dedication to implementing various student support programs. Their commitment ensures that these impactful initiatives are tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, fostering an environment where they can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially," said Olive Middle School Principal Pamela Cruz.
The school also offers their families learning opportunities through parent meetings held to share information on topics such as anxiety, mental health, and suicide prevention.
As Olive Middle School continues to evolve, these initiatives serve as a testament to their commitment to providing a well-rounded education beyond the classrooms, creating an environment where students can truly flourish.
PHOTOS
OMS 1: Olive Middle School Kindness Club Leader Destiny Garcia poses with student made poster.
OMS 2: Ceramic chess sets available for students in the Olive Middle School library.
OMS 3: Olive Middle School academic counselor Johana Lopez poses outside the student services center.
OMS 4: Olive Middle School’s calming corner at the student services center.