LAWRENCE – A fresh and fully renovated teachers’ lounge welcomed teachers and staff back to the Guilmette Elementary School this year.
The space that was unveiled on Friday has been revitalized by health insurance company Wellpoint and the Boston Bruins Foundation.
“Teachers and school staff spend so much of their time caring for others, and they deserve a space that supports their own well-being,” Wellpoint Genera Manager David Morales said.
“We’re honored to partner with the Boston Bruins to create a welcoming environment where the Guilmette Elementary team can recharge, collaborate, and continue making a positive impact on their students,” he said.
The school was selected as the second winner of the annual Teachers’ Lounge Makeover Contest, sponsored by Wellpoint and created to honor the tireless efforts of educators across Massachusetts.
Guilmette Elementary, a Title I school serving a high-needs student population, needed to relocate its teachers’ lounge earlier this year to create additional learning space for students.
The new lounge features new flooring and furniture, school-inspired decor, and functional amenities that invite collaboration and a place to recharge – just in time for staff returning for the new school year, Wellpoint officials said.
“Every day, our educators pour so much of themselves into making sure our students feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving at high levels,” Guilmette Principal Katherine Ulcickas said.
“This new space sends an important message to our staff: the work you do matters, and you deserve to feel cared for, too. It gives our team a beautiful place to connect, collaborate, recharge, and experience a little joy together.”
The Boston Bruins and their mascot, Blades, joined the celebration to recognize the effect of teachers and staff both inside and outside the classroom.
“The Boston Bruins and Boston Bruins Foundation are proud to join Wellpoint in providing a refreshed environment for the teachers and staff at Guilmette Elementary School,” Boston Bruins Foundation President Bob Sweeney said.
“Educators play an important role within our communities and we’re thrilled to celebrate their impact and dedication through this project.”
Wellpoint, is a division of Elevance Health Inc., a publicly traded Indiana company that posted nearly $200 billion in revenue during 2025, according to its online financials.
Wellpoint serves Massachusetts Group Insurance Commission members, retirees, and their families for more than 30 years. It provides health benefits exclusively to people insured through the GIC, offering plans that provide medical benefits.
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