Testimonials from Schools

"Barb Helms-Bot did a presentation to over 100 educational assistants from the Robbinsdale Area School District on January 23, 2004.One of the great concerns with the educational assistants is stress; they have asked for a class on this for a few years. Barb did a great presentation on some quick things people can do to help relieve stress at work and at home.

I would highly recommend Barb to any organization (small or large) to do a presentation.  I have recommended Barb to Education Minnesota about a possibility to do a presentation next fall for the EASRP Minnesota Conference."

Joan Allivato
Forest Elementary School
Robbinsdale School District

"The staff at Elm Creek was motivated by and appreciated the Wellness Seminar presentation given by Andrea Farquharson .  People liked Andrea's energy and found the workshop to be informational and motivational.  I believe some staff members will attempt to change some things in their lifestyle to further improve their health and to try to lower their stress level.

Some comments by the staff were:

'The stress workshop was great; I like the idea of caring for staff.  I think we should do more of this kind of thing.'

'Stress presentation was worthwhile and very interesting.

'I liked the stress presentation...very pertinent to my life.'

'Good nutritional information, handouts supported the philosophy.'

'Focusing on stress was a good winter break.'

'I was happy to learn more about my nutritional needs, especially energy increase.' "

Judy Marn, Principal
Elm Creek Elementary
Osseo School District

"The setting was a busy morning before school, but Barb Helms-Bot managed to get our entire staff relaxed and focused on their health.  Barb's presentation has certainly piqued our interest to know more about the importance of eating healthy, exercise and keeping balance.  When her hour was over we had some new knowledge and new motivation.  Needless to say it was a great start to a workday." 

Gary Kipling, Principal,
Kimberly Lane . Elementary
Wazyata School District

"Andrea Farquharson and Barbara Helms-Bot presented a workshop on 'Women's Wellness' to the nurses of District 279. Andrea presents the topics using a variety of learning techniques that keeps the audience alert and involved. Her energy is contagious and the program was nicely organized. You will enjoy and benefit from Andrea and Barb's workshops."

Lonna Boomer RN
Osseo School District

"The Stress Relief Seminar included guidelines that will benefit staff in terms of choices when selecting vitamins and exercises.  It gave those who wanted strategies for how to relieve their stress.  The activities were certainly helpful and people saw easy ways to engage in such during their workday. The response from teachers was very positive.   It is rare that our staff finds the planned activities for these types of days a good use of their time.  Your seminar was touted as time well spent."

Jud Haynie, Principal
North View Junior High
Osseo School District

" Woodland Elementary School invited Mrs. Barbara Helms-Bot to make a presentation to our staff on the topic of stress relief. Mrs. Helms-Bot presented a session to interested staff during Teacher Appreciation Week. Those attending received valuable information that was presented in an informative and thought provoking manner. Mrs. Helms-Bot reviewed the facts and medical information regarding stress and how it relates to people who work in the education field. Her presentation was organized, well planned, and implemented effectively. Staff gained information and strategies for reducing and dealing with stress that could be immediately applied to their lives.

Mrs. Helms-Bot's presentation not only was well done and well received, but it highly valued the work of staff who have chosen the education field. Those attending the session were very satisfied with the information received and would recommend the presentation to others. The stress relief workshop was excellent and I recommend it as a staff development activity."

Linda Perdaems
Principal, Woodland Elementary School- Osseo School District