Many HISD campuses are utilizing brightly decorated “Thinkery rooms” that offer a calming period to reduce anxiety and allow students to create their unique plan of action utilizing the various areas in the room.

The Thinkery rooms are a product of a Social Emotional Learning initiative to be more proactive with mental health. HISD currently has 40 campuses with Thinkery rooms. According to Executive Director, Counseling and Compliance Glenda Calloway, the SEL department is developing a mobile Thinkery room to launch in late spring.  The rooms usually have a theme painted on the walls, comfortable furniture, and plenty of activities to keep students busy.