News Release
6/19/2017
Aurora, ON – Exams commence this week for students at York Region District School Board and schools are providing additional supports to help students stay healthy and reduce stress during exams.
Activities in some schools include, inviting certified therapy dogs to visit students, and creating wellness and distress kits for students and staff. Additionally, several schools have extended student access to facilities such as the gymnasium and fitness rooms for basketball, weight training, running, yoga and other wellness focused programs.
“It is important that students know there are supports in place to help manage stress and feelings of worry during exams. We want every YRDSB learner to feel they are equipped with the tools they need to succeed,” said Chief Social Worker, Heather Carter.
The Board has also implemented a new skills program to promote well-being by focusing on teaching students about mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness in several schools.
Students can take extra care of their well-being during exams by:
•Getting a good night's rest.
•Eating a well-balanced meal.
•Arriving to test/exams at least 15 minutes early.
•Taking regular wellness breaks during studying to exercise or connect with others.
•Avoid continuing to study right before a test/exam.
•Packing supplies needed for your exam the day before.
•Staying positive. Make time to connect with people who positively boost your mood.
For more information on helping students to stay healthy during exam season, the Board has tips available on preparing for exams and managing stress.
York Region District School Board is the third largest school district in Ontario with over 123,000 students in 176 elementary schools and 32 secondary schools. York Region students consistently perform above average in provincial testing and the Board is one of the top achievers in Ontario. For more information about the York Region District School Board, please visit the Board website and follow @YRDSB on Twitter.
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