Zen Space for Teachers: Recharging at Sankofa School of Success

Teachers at Sankofa School of Success now have a dedicated space to unwind during the school day, thanks to a new partnership between the Fight for Life Foundation and Simon Malls. The not-for-profit organization unveiled the school's new Staff Zen Room, part of its Be A Blessing program that provides resources to students, families, and educators.

"It equips them with tools that they need to meet their student population," said Marlin Jackson, founder and CEO of the foundation.

The space features soft lighting, comfortable seating, yoga mats, aromatherapy, adult coloring books, mindfulness journals, and more. Simon Malls donated many of the items.

"Strong schools create strong neighborhoods," said Lauren Dodrill, marketing director at Simon Malls. "Investing in educators benefits the entire community."

The launch comes as Indiana faces an ongoing teacher shortage. The Indiana State Teachers Association reports that 95% of public schools have open positions, and more than half of teachers plan to leave earlier than expected.

"I noticed that the teachers had secondary trauma as a result of caring for those who have been victims of trauma, and so I learned very early on that I had to take care of my teachers or I wouldn't have any teachers," said Dr. Tihesha Henderson, founder and executive director at Sankofa.

"I want these kids to have big dreams, and now I have the energy to help them soar," said Jones, a teacher at Sankofa.