Mindfulness in Schools
The East Texas Arts & Wellness staff have a long history of running successful programs in schools, where mindfulness training can have a profound impact. Our experience in schools has revealed that many schools are in “survive” not “thrive” mode—unable to meet their promise to empower and support the diverse needs of their students and educators.
Educators play a crucial role in their students’ engagement, yet they are often too overburdened and burned out to cope with the stress and trauma that plays out in their classrooms. According to recent studies from the American Federation of Teachers, 61% of teachers report being stressed “always” or “most of the time” and over half of the teachers reported that they felt they had poor mental health. These statistics are underscored by the fact that public school educators are quitting their jobs at the highest rate on record.
In addition, students face challenges that impact their ability to learn, connect with one another, and develop into healthy adults. The disruption caused by the pandemic has adversely affected young people, especially those experiencing poverty and discrimination.
Our programs begin by offering immediate support to the adults in the school community since their well-being and engagement is foundational to the school culture and learning experience. Our programs guide school staff, administrators, and teachers to address stress, reactivity, and negative habits while reconnecting with their strengths and becoming more grounded present and intentional.
We then move on to sharing mindfulness with students. Through direct lessons from East Texas Wellness staff and lesson plans led by teachers, students learn to encounter stress in healthy ways and strengthen their resilience to the challenges young people face.
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To learn more about our in-school programs and speak with a member of our staff please contact us below.