On February 9th IU1 welcomed educators from Bentworth School District, Brownsville Area School District, Frazier School District, and Chartiers-Houston School District to PennWest California for its 3rd Annual Health & Wellness In-Service. The event provided educators with a full day devoted to both personal and professional well-being, combining engaging learning opportunities, wellness resources, and hands-on experiences.
The morning kicked off with warm welcome remarks from IU1 administration, setting the tone for a day focused on growth, connection, and support. Attendees were then treated to a series of keynote sessions led by partners from PennWest California, including Robert “Bobby” Sepesy, Performance Enhancement Coach; M. Scott Zema, Associate Director of the Office for Students with Disabilities and Assistant Professor; and Rachel Michaels, Associate Director for Wellness. These sessions offered valuable insights into physical performance, mental wellness, and strategies for maintaining balance in a demanding educational environment. Updates from ASHIC Insurance and Lytle EAP followed, equipping participants with important information about health and employee support programs.
The afternoon featured a lively lunch and vendor fair, where participants explored a wide variety of booths hosted by community partners such as Planet Fitness, Kades-Margolis, Highmark, StretchLab, Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA, Ascent Financial Group, PSERS, Wonsettler Physical Therapy, UPMC, 7Mindsets, Washington Health System, POUND, and more. The fair gave attendees the opportunity to connect directly with local organizations offering fitness, healthcare, financial, and wellness resources.
Participants then spread across campus for two rounds of breakout sessions, braving the chilly weather to attend workshops on topics including nutrition, skincare, financial wellness, fitness technology trends, and applying the 7 Mindsets in both personal and professional settings. These interactive sessions allowed educators to engage with experts, share strategies, and gain practical tips they can bring back to their schools.
The day concluded in the Convocation Center with raffle prizes, closing remarks, and plenty of energy and enthusiasm for the next steps in promoting health and wellness within the IU1 community. IU1 thanks all school districts, presenters, vendors, and partners for making the 3rd Annual Health & Wellness In-Service a resounding success — a day that left participants inspired, informed, and energized.
