Schools Embrace Mindfulness Practices to Support Student Mental Health

In a small town in Rex, Georgia, third-grade students at Roberta T. Smith Elementary School are finding peace and tranquility in the midst of their busy school day. With only a few days left until summer vacation, these students eagerly participate in a mindfulness program that has become a favorite part of their daily routine.

Led by their teacher, Kim Franklin, the students engage in meditation exercises such as the shark fin, where they close their eyes and focus on their breathing. This practice is part of a larger movement in schools across the U.S. to introduce yoga, meditation, and mindfulness exercises to help students manage stress and emotions.

The program at Smith Elementary is provided through a partnership with Inner Explorer, an audio platform that offers guided mindfulness sessions. Supported by GreenLight Fund Atlanta, the program aims to make mindfulness practices accessible and relevant for communities of color, particularly in the Greater Atlanta area.

As students nationwide struggle with the effects of isolation and remote learning, the CDC has recommended schools use mindfulness practices to help students cope with their emotions. Research has shown that school-based mindfulness programs can be especially beneficial in low-income communities where students face high levels of stress or trauma.

For students like Aniyah and Malachi, the mindfulness program has made a significant impact. Aniyah shared that it made her feel peaceful, while Malachi expressed how it helped him realize his potential as an excellent scholar.

With the support of their teachers and administrators, these students are learning valuable skills to manage their emotions and improve their overall well-being. As they prepare to embark on summer vacation, they carry with them the tools they need to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.