As a student at East Middle School, I witness firsthand the stress that my peers and I endure daily. According to the American Psychological Association, adolescence is a time of significant change and development, and the pressures of school life often add unnecessary stress. Middle school, in particular, can prove challenging due to significant academic and social transitions. This is why we urgently need a solution: a Student Lounge.

The envisaged student lounge at our school would serve as a calming space where students can unwind for a hour, play games, and stimulate social connections under the watch of a supervisor. This isn't just a room; it's a sanctuary designed to ensure happiness, inclusion, and to alleviate stress. Based on HeartMath Institute's research, such spaces have been shown to improve student emotional well-being, foster academic engagement, and cultivate a sense of community. Another important reason is that middle school doesn’t get a recess period. So this lounge would serve as a recess for the students.

Our school needs this student lounge. It’s a way to cater to the emotional needs of students and ensure that everyone has a place to feel safe, cared for, and heard. By creating a space that promotes camaraderie, we can also foster a stronger, more inclusive school culture.

Please sign this petition to support the creation of a student lounge at East Middle School. Your signature can make a difference for me, for my peers, and for every student who comes after us. Together, we can make school life less stressful and more enjoyable.