A local Scout was recognized during a Wood County Schools Board of Education meeting for his commitment to community service and his efforts to support students at Jackson Middle School.
The Board recognized Gabe Floyd for completing an Eagle Scout project that created a sensory room and an emotional regulation room at the school. The project provides students with dedicated spaces designed to support their sensory needs and help them manage their emotions.
A sensory and emotional regulation room in a school is a designated space where students can take a brief, structured break to manage sensory input, regulate their emotions, and regain the focus needed to participate successfully in learning.
These rooms provide a calm, supportive environment for students who may feel overwhelmed by noise, bright lights, busy surroundings, frustration, anxiety, or other challenges throughout the school day. They may include soft lighting, comfortable seating, sensory tools, calming visuals, movement activities, and other resources that help students feel settled and ready to learn.
Floyd, a member of Scouting America Troop 20 at Wayside United Methodist Church, worked with Jackson Middle School staff members Mr. Echard, Jackson Middle's Principal, and Ms. Loyd, the school’s counselor, along with his Scout leadership, to bring the project to life.
The idea began when Floyd started exploring options for his Eagle Scout project. After reaching out to Mr. Echard, the team identified the creation of sensory and emotional regulation rooms as a meaningful way to support Jackson Middle School students.
Floyd took the lead in planning the project, developing designs and organizing a fundraiser to purchase the necessary materials. He and the team also painted the rooms and worked through the steps needed to transform the idea into a completed project.
After several months of planning and hard work, the rooms were completed and are now available at Jackson Middle School. Floyd said he has heard positive feedback about the impact the spaces are having on students and is glad to have made a difference in his community.
During the Board of Education presentation, district representatives expressed their sincere appreciation for Floyd’s service, dedication and commitment to supporting students.
The project demonstrates how student leadership, community partnerships and a spirit of service can make a lasting difference in schools. Through his Eagle Scout project, Floyd has helped create supportive spaces that contribute to the well-being of Jackson Middle School students.
Wood County Schools extends its thanks to Floyd, Troop 20, the Scout leadership team and the Jackson Middle School staff members who helped make this project possible.