Many NC public schools call off classes Friday for 'wellness day'

More than a dozen local school districts have called off school on Friday, labeling it a wellness day or a day of reflection to address the mental health concerns felt during the pandemic.

Some teachers have the day off, while others are being asked to work from home.

Some districts that won't send students to school, either for a teacher workday or a wellness day off for everyone, include: Chatham, Cumberland, Clinton City, Durham, Edgecombe, Franklin, Granville, Halifax, Hoke, Johnston, Lee, Nash, Person, Sampson, Wake, Warren, Wayne and Weldon.

Other school districts are already planning for an extended Thanksgiving break as well, like Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, which is giving students Nov. 23 and Nov. 24, the Tuesday and Wednesday before the holiday, off.

Dr. Rebecca Taylor, a UNC psychiatrist, suggests parents and students take full advantage of the day by keeping it simple -- such as staying away from electronics and, instead, cooking or baking with family or going outside to play or exercise.

Taylor recommends families avoid sleeping in all day, playing video games, checking emails or doing homework.

Inexpensive activities families can try include painting (buy cheap supplies at a dollar store) or puzzles.

One teacher, Michelle Moore, feels the day is a much-needed break.

"It also gives us time to work on grades ... all the background stuff that can't get done when students are actually in the classroom," she said. "The change of scenery kind of helps too -- it helps the students, not just the teachers, because they need the break as well."

Since many parents still have to work, school districts teamed up with the YMCA and other programs to help offer care for younger students.