The administration of Joliet Catholic Academy  sponsored a Wellness Day for faculty and staff recently. The day was devoted to physical and mental wellness.

The day began with prayer and coffee in the library coupled with an explanation of the day’s events by Vice Principal Laura Pahl.

The following two hour time slot gave faculty and staff had the opportunity to attend half hour wellness sessions. Five sessions were available. Dr. Vida Puodziunas DC of Healthy Connection Physical Medicine presented on stress; alumnus Ed Dollinger ’80 of Edward Jones Investments covered Financial Planning for the Future; Brandon Kelly from Undisputed Strength Company/Cross Fit Joliet held a fitness class, JCA’s own Mark Clarke, Meghan Prohaska, and Jason Midlock presented on  running/racing fitness, and chair massages featuring neck, shoulders, and back massages were available.

After the breakout sessions, faculty and staff were given some time for themselves. They could organize and/or participate in one of any of the following…dodgeball to release stress and get some exercise, board or card games to challenge the mind and each other, or head to the gym for a friendly game of basketball or volleyball. The entire school was available, and the possibilities were endless.

Next, the faculty and staff were treated to a “Fish Fry” catered by Captain Bob and his cafeteria staff. Conversation, laughter and socializing carried the faculty, and staff through the remainder of the day.

Upon dismissal President/Principal Jeff Budz commented, “This was a day of faculty and staff collaboration for you. We hope you enjoyed the time with your peers and were unable to unwind as we prepare for the ‘home stretch’ of the school year.”

A big thank you goes out to our presenters Dr. Vida Puodziunas, Ed Dollinger, Brandon Kelly, Mark Clarke, Meghan Prohaska, and Jason Midlock.