Gates Chili Central School District

Staff wellness

Spartan Strong: Wellness Starts With Us

At Gates Chili, we believe that taking care of our staff is just as important as taking care of our students. Wellness Starts with Us means creating and sustaining a culture where physical, mental and emotional well-being are a priority every day.

Through the Spartan Strong wellness program, staff have access to a variety of opportunities that support healthier lifestyles and a stronger sense of community. From fitness classes and mindfulness sessions to nutrition workshops and stress management resources, we are committed to offering meaningful ways for staff to recharge, reconnect and thrive—together.

Because when we feel our best, we give our best. And that benefits our entire school community.

Activities this school year

What you missed this fall

Fall Step Challenge 👟

In September, Spartans stepped up to the Step Challenge, recording 23,696,066 steps! Keep finding ways to move throughout your day and feel the difference it makes.

Improv Comedy Class 😊

October's Spartan Strong improv classes were filled with fun and creativity. Staff members stepped outside their comfort zones, connected with coworkers and experienced the mood-boosting benefits of play.

Mindfulness Classes 🧠

In November and December, Spartan staff members learned practical techniques to quiet the mind, release stress and reconnect with the present.

Body Reset Classes 🔄

In January, Spartan staff members learned simple self-massage techniques to help ease muscle tension and support better movement.

Hydraton Challenge💧

In January, Spartans practiced building healthy habits with a month-long hydration challenge, tracking ounces consumed for a total of more than 77,000 oz. logged!

What you missed this winter

Yoga Classes 🧘

Staff took the opportunity to stretch, restore and center with our Spartan Strong yoga sessions in February and March! Yoga is a great way to reduce stress, improve flexibility and boost overall well-being.

Staff Wellness Fair 🎪

Care, connection and a chance to recharge were at the heart of Superintendent’s Conference Day on March 20, as Gates Chili staff gathered at the middle school for the district’s first Spartan Strong Wellness Fair. Designed as a flexible experience, the fair included wellness vendors, blood pressure screenings, an indoor walking path, chair massages, golf simulators, group games, puzzles and quieter options like adult coloring, tarot readings and Reiki
sessions.

Coming this spring

Improv Comedy Class 😊

This spring’s Spartan Strong improv class offered staff a fun and engaging way to unwind and try something new. Participants built confidence, strengthened relationships, and discovered how laughter and creativity can support health and wellness.

Couch to 5K Program 🛋️

Get moving this spring in preparation for the corporate challenge in May.

Corporate Challenge 👟

Join your colleagues as we get moving on Thursday, May 21 for the the world’s largest corporate running series. Teams with colleagues of all experience levels walk, jog or run a 3.5-mile course, building a lasting tradition outside the workplace and supporting local communities. Please note you will need to create an account then select “Gates Chili Central School District” to register.

Register for the GCCSD Team

Past issues of the Spartan Strong e-newsletter

The Spartan Strong e-newsletter is your monthly source for all things staff wellness at Gates Chili. Each issue features tips, events, resources and inspiration to help you prioritize your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Stay informed, stay motivated and stay Spartan Strong!