Safe spaces

BLURB BY MYKOLAS KUMPIS News Staffer

LAYOUT BY MAYA CLEMENT Managing Editor

For ten months of the year, Clarke Central High School exists as a safe haven for students.

From 8:45 a.m. to 3:35 p.m., students are in a safe, secure area with access to food, a climate controlled space, fellow kids and adult mentors.

However, the summer months throw this arrangement into disarray. June and July represent a time of chaos for many students who may not have access to stable households.

Clarke County School District school psychologist Dr. Marcia Page believes that for students to find success during the summer, they need to immerse themselves in activities that promote long-term healthy behaviors.

“I think it's easier for some kids to get to a safe space than others. Some of our students have a lot more temptations to engage in negative behavior and it's sometimes right there in their neighborhood,” Page said. “It's important to use your time constructively. The best defense towards staying out of trouble is to find something productive to do and be around other people who are choosing to be in an environment where people are trying to better themselves and occupy their time in a healthy way.”

Regardless of their circumstances outside of school, CCHS students have options. Athens is home to a multitude of safe spaces where teens can thrive. From dance studios to public parks, the city can meet the needs of students, whether that's a social environment, a creative outlet or mentorship.

“(Safe spaces) are a great way of finding something you love and people (who share) similar interests,” CCHS sophomore Harper White said. “They can really bring out the best in you and I think having hobbies and the places to do them is great for people, teens especially.”