A Christos Foundation volunteer stocks bags of snacks in baskets on a shelf in the new serenity room.

During a busy school day, more BCS teachers can find an oasis just a short walk away from their classrooms. 

The Christos Foundation, along with YMCA of WNC and Biltmore Church, are transforming spaces at several schools into “Serenity Rooms”. The rooms are furnished with comfy chairs, artwork, and soft lighting donated by Rooms To Go. They are also stocked with snacks, coffees, and teas. 

A Christos Foundation staffer writes "welcome" on a white board in the new serenity room. She's standing next to a new lamp and massage chair.“Educators give so much, and this is a small way we can give back to them,” said Katie Carrington, of the Christos Foundation. “The YMCA is participating in a national ‘Togetherhood’ initiative, and it’s been great to bring in several of their youth volunteers to help us create these incredible spaces.”

A Christos Foundation volunteer stocks bags of snacks in baskets on a shelf in the new serenity room.

As the new school year begins, volunteers have staged new serenity rooms at Fairview, Haw Creek, and North Buncombe elementary schools; Cane Creek Middle School; and T.C. Roberson High School. Teachers can use the rooms as calm workspaces during their planning time and before and after school. 

A volunteer uses a cloth to wash a window in the serenity room“We are so appreciative of the kindness and generosity of the Christos Foundation, YMCA, Biltmore Church, Rooms to Go, and all the volunteers who made this such a special place,” said Roberson assistant principal Tara Lawther. “Our teachers are going to love having this beautiful space to refresh and recharge.”

A YMCA WNC volunteer uses a power sander on the bottom of a book shelfThe Christos Foundation has previously established Serenity Rooms at Valley Springs Middle and Koontz Intermediate schools.

A Christos Foundation volunteer hangs on sconce on the wall of the new  serenity room