NBC Students and Staff Already Using New Wellness Center

Northern Bedford County School District recently completed the construction of their new wellness center last Tuesday, and it officially opened to be used the next day.

To celebrate, there was a ribbon cutting held on Tuesday, November 12, by the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce.

The $1.3 million dollar facility and equipment was funded through a grant process.

The project is an improvement of the former small weight room that was there before. It is a result of the vision, collaboration, and determination of the district's leadership and project committee.

Superintendent Todd Beatty said at the district's board meeting held on the same day, that he looked forward to it being in use and hoped it would be beneficial for everyone.

"What we had before is not even comparable," Shawn Cerully, Northern Bedford County High School principal said. "It is significantly larger, it is up to date, and has all new equipment."

Athletic Director Jeff Batzel said the construction for the facility began last spring and was officially opened on Wednesday, November 13.

"A lot of hard work has been put into it," he said.

Batzel said it will be for students to use including during physical education and for student athlete training.

"It will be incorporated into all PE classes here at NBC, and will be used by the athletic teams as well," Cerully said.

All of the NBC staff will be able to use the wellness center as well.

"It's already getting a lot of good use," Batzel said.

Northern Bedford Middle School Principal Kendra said they strive to provide a positive environment and culture for students and staff in the district.

"The Wellness Center has already provided both students and staff motivation to improve physical fitness, which also helps boost our mental health," she said. "I have enjoyed seeing students and staff already working out alongside each other."

The facility includes new cardio machines and weight equipment.

Batzel also agreed that the facility will give both students and staff a great resource for better mental and physical health.

"It will provide a place for students to blow off steam during the day, workout and be healthier," he said. "It will be great especially in the winter months when it is harder to go outside."

Cerully also hoped that would help improve the general health and wellness of students and staff.

"We are really proud of being able to put the wellness center together, and hope it will be used for many years to come," he said.