The year 2020 has been anything but ordinary.
From quarantines to remote learning to cancelled sports seasons, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to test us in ways we have never been tested before. For many, the resulting stress has been difficult to manage - - both mentally and physically. 
The Westmoreland Central School District recognizes how much of a burden the pandemic is, and the overall health and wellness of students and staff has never been more important.
Earlier this year, the district created a “Wellness Committee” comprised of Superintendent of Schools Rocco Migliori, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Pupil Personnel Stephen Polera, Jr./Sr. High School Principal Joshua Saxton, Upper Elementary School Principal Trevor Haskell, Primary Elementary School Principal Mary Anne O’Connell and teachers from each of the district’s three school buildings. The purpose of the committee is, through collaboration, to develop and implement initiatives designed to promote good health, wellness, fitness and mindfulness. The committee has partnered with Excellus Blue Cross/Blue Shield and also actively consults a variety of health and wellness professionals.
To help students and staff start 2021 on a positive note, the committee is kicking-off its first initiative, “Wellness Wednesdays,” on January 6. As part of the initiative, each school building will be participating in healthy activities every Wednesday.
“Given the times we currently live in, we want to make sure students and staff are taking the time to decompress and take care of their minds and bodies,” said Polera. “It’s so easy to spend too much time on your computer or phone.”
As a “pre-kick-off,” Vincent Cannarelli, Class of 2006, visited Mrs. Weissenberger’s Media Productions class at the Jr./Sr. High School to discuss his education and career journey. After a brief and successful stint in the Information and Technology sector, Cannarelli is now a full-time group fitness coach and personal trainer at Mohawk Valley Wellness in Marcy - - one of the most popular fitness facilities in our area. He is also a yoga instructor at In Bloom Yoga Studio in New Hartford.
Shortly after his visit with Mrs. Weissenberger’s class, Cannarelli returned to record a personal training session for students and staff. The video, which was filmed in the Media Productions classroom, features several breathing and stretching exercises anyone can do to help with decompressing after long hours in front of a computer or other device, sitting or driving. Click here to watch the video.
“We are dedicated to providing new health and wellness opportunities for our students and staff,” added Polera.
Teachers interested in joining the district “Wellness Committee,” or anyone with any ideas, should contact Mr. Polera at spolera@westmorelandschool.org or (315) 557-2697.