Cayuga Elementary School proudly unveiled its new sensory room this month. It's a calming, interactive space designed to support students’ social-emotional needs and provide opportunities for self-regulation, exploration, and sensory play. The project was made possible through a generous grant from Tanger Kids and the ongoing dedication of the Cayuga PTA, whose support helped turn the school’s vision into a reality.

The room features a variety of stations tailored to help students reset and refocus throughout the school day, including a calming corner for quiet regulation and mindfulness, and a sensory play area equipped with tools and activities that encourage hands-on exploration, movement, and tactile learning. Together, these spaces create an environment where students can manage emotions, build coping skills, and strengthen their overall well-being.

Cayuga Principal Lori Onesto said the new room reflects a meaningful step forward for the school. 

“We were able to take our vision and make it happen," she said. "Our students can find a space where they can calm themselves, use meditation techniques, and utilize the space for exploration.”

The sensory room is already proving to be a valuable addition to the building, offering students a comforting, structured environment that helps them return to the classroom ready to learn. This project reinforces Cayuga’s commitment to fostering a supportive school community where every student’s emotional and academic needs are nurtured.