Notre Dame Academy’s third De-Stress Fest, a special time for students to de-stress from upcoming finals, took place Thursday, December 7, in the Alumni Gym. 

“I like that kids get to take a little break from school, relax and have fun,” said Ms. Ciera Gerl, Student Services.  Students were able to check out of study hall to attend the event. 

There were eight different stations available for students to visit. 

These stations included popcorn, rainbow scratch-offs, stress balls, diamond painting, prizes, temporary tattoos,and therapy dogs. Many teachers gave up their prep period to assist, and arrangements had been made for community members to bring in their dogs.

“All of us need a little fun in our school day,” said Mrs. Carolyn Brown, who took her Journalism I class to the event, so they could write a story for the Online Tritonian.

NDA started this event three years ago after Ms. Gerl saw a video on TikTok of another high school doing something similar. 

Ms. Gerl and Mrs. Beth Abler spearheaded planning the event with help from Ms. Brianna Rockwood behind the scenes. 

“I appreciate the counselors going out of their way to put on this special event,” said Mrs. Brown. 

Most students’ favorite part about this event was being able to see the dogs, but every station had its share of visitors. 

Ms. Gerl’s aim is to encourage students to be calm and have a plan for studying during finals week.