San Marcos, CA — Mission Hills High School celebrated the opening of its new Wellness Center, a space created with students in mind and designed to support mental health, connection, and overall well being.

Made possible through a $1.5 million grant from The Children’s Partnership, the Wellness Center reflects a growing understanding that students learn best when their social and emotional needs are supported alongside academics. The project was shaped through collaboration among school staff, district leaders, community partners, and students who helped inform both the design and purpose of the space.

The Wellness Center offers students a calm and welcoming environment where they can access counseling, participate in wellness focused programming, or simply take a moment to reset during the school day. Importantly, the space is separate from disciplinary offices, reinforcing its role as a place of support rather than consequence.

“Our goal was to create a space where students feel comfortable asking for help and know they are supported,” school leaders shared during the opening. “This center is about meeting students where they are and ensuring they have access to care when they need it.”

A key partner in the initiative is California State University San Marcos, whose collaboration brings added depth to the program through expanded services, training opportunities, and connections to future pathways in health, counseling, and education. The partnership strengthens the center’s impact while reinforcing ties between K through 12 education and higher learning.

Student voice was central to the development of the Wellness Center. From early conversations to the final design, students helped identify what would make the space feel welcoming, useful, and relevant. During the grand opening, several students shared how the center represents a meaningful step toward reducing stigma around mental health and creating a culture of care on campus.

The Wellness Center aligns with San Marcos Unified School District’s broader commitment to student wellness, safety, and long term success. As schools across California respond to increasing mental health needs among youth, Mission Hills High School’s Wellness Center serves as a thoughtful example of what is possible when schools and communities work together.

The grand opening brought together students, families, educators, and community partners to celebrate a shared investment in student well being and a resource that will support Mission Hills students for years to come.