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A new teen center at NS has officially opened its doors, offering students a place to relax, study or receive support. It was made possible by roughly $55,000 in funding from a combination of the Policy Project, the Sorenson Foundation and a few smaller donations, marking a significant investment in student well-being.
The Teen Center, located near the auxiliary gym, was designed as a safe and welcoming space for students. It includes a shower, laundry room, a quiet area for studying and a pantry with snacks available for students to access.
As you enter the room you are greeted with bright colors, comfortable furniture and a space for students to gather. It also serves as a place for students with difficult home situations to find some respite.
Cindy Lund, a social worker at NS, emphasized that the center’s availability to students could provide an essential outlet for those dealing with difficult personal circumstances.
“Some students don’t have a safe place to go after school or a place with adequate resources at home,” Cindy Lund said. “The Teen Center can really make a difference for them.”
SBO president Brandt Lund has seen the difference the Teen Center has made among students.
“I love it,” Lund said. “At first, I was a little hesitant, worried that it might not be accessible to everyone, but I’ve seen how it has helped athletes, students before games and even those who just need a quiet place to go.”
Lund has played an active role in promoting the Teen Center, helping to give tours, attending the grand opening and assisting with the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
While the center has been well-received, there are some concerns. Senior Wyatt Bailey, a student at NS, expressed concerns about how it has been locked during the school day.
“I think that if you’re going to spend so much money on something, you should let the teens use it instead of just keeping it closed all the time,” Bailey said.
Despite his reservations, Bailey recognized that the idea behind the Teen Center was well-intentioned.
Other concerns involve students misusing the center and its resources.
“I know that they’re taking some measures to ensure that students don’t abuse that,” Lund said. “I know that they’ve locked up the pantry.”
Lund is hoping that students will understand the purpose of the center and use the Teen Center with care.
“My hope is that the Teen Center can be treated with respect,” Lund said. “It’s a privilege to use it, and I want to make sure it stays a positive space for everyone.”
He pointed out that the pantry is locked to prevent students from emptying out the pantry in one day and that Maren Atkinson, the Teen Center caretaker, is always present to ensure things run smoothly.
Another person with concerns about the students that use the Teen Center, Brandon Olsen, the woods teacher at the high school, noted that the Teen Center could also help bridge the gap for students in need of support outside of the classroom.
“Students’ needs today are different from when I first started teaching,” Olsen said. “I think this will be a valuable resource for students, whether they need academic help, emotional support or just a quiet space.”
While some students may worry about potential bullying for using the Teen Center, Olsen believes the community’s focus on inclusivity and respect will help ensure it remains a well-used and respected space.
“Hopefully, students won’t view each other differently for needing a place to go,” Olsen said. “Every student has their own struggles, and we need to support each other.”
Principal Christine Straatman also shared her optimism about the center’s future.
“It’s a wonderful resource, and I believe it will continue to grow and benefit our students,” Straatman said. “We are fortunate to have the support of organizations like the Sorenson Foundation and others who understand the importance of providing these opportunities for our students.”
With the Teen Center now open and actively used by students, its success hinges on continued support from the community, as well as the students who use it.
“The Teen Center has been a long time coming, and it’s been a huge project,” district superintendent O’Dee Hansen said. “I think it will continue to evolve and meet the needs of our students, making North Sanpete High School an even better place for all.”
As the school year progresses, it is clear that the Teen Center will remain an important part of the student experience at NS. Whether for students seeking a place for studies, a quiet place to relax or just a chance to connect with peers, the Teen Center is already making an impact and promises to be a valuable resource for years to come.
