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Mindfulness

Mindfulness at Bayside Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy

Mindfulness at Bayside Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy

We are happy to report that students, faculty, and staff at Bayside Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy are discovering how to integrate essential practices for well-being and academic success into the classroom with mindfulness.
 
What is mindfulness?  Mindfulness is maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment with openness and curiosity. It has many research-backed impacts, including improved attention and emotional regulation, increased wellbeing and compassion, and reduced stress and anxiety.
 
In our most recent measures, 88% of students polled reported that mindfulness is helping their classrooms feel better, 70% reported using the practice to help them focus and to calm difficult emotions, and 79% reported that mindfulness is even helping them feel happier where they live. We anticipate these numbers will only continue to grow as our school receives more support and training.
 
We would like to thank the many people who have made this initiative possible, including Mindful SchoolsJoyful Mind Project, and the Sausalito Marin City School District.
Resources from Mindful Schools

Resources from Mindful Schools

What is mindfulness?  Why students, educators, and parents are practicing in schools across the U.S. and around the globe.
 
Read this heartwarming story from BMLK’s mindfulness trainer, Chelsea True.
 
In this interview, a seasoned educator explores mindfulness in her work.
 
Here is a great collection of books, films, lesson videos, presentations, and audios.
 
Here is a great collection of short videos about mindfulness in schools.
 
This page summarizes research on the benefits of mindfulness, including neuroscience, latest scientific studies, and specific benefits for educators and students.
Testimonials

Testimonials

“I love teaching here and from the beginning, our mindfulness trainer was always there for me.  She listened to me and gently helped me learn centering and breathing techniques to help me stay on track. I witness and hear of other teachers and students who echo this sentiment around the work of mindfulness.  This is only beginning!” — Brandon Culley, Core Faculty, BMLK
 
“The mindfulness project has and continues to be one of my student’s favorite calming tools that they are learning to acquire.  When Ms. True, our mindfulness trainer, drifts into our classroom, she spreads her magic in addition to her love.” — Louis Edney, Core Faculty, BML
 
“As the Principal at Bayside MLK, I can’t say enough good things about mindfulness in our school.  I am seeing evidence of the skills our students and staff are learning in the classrooms, in our multipurpose room, in our school office, and even in our hallways.  We are starting to deepen our understanding of the positive impact mindfulness can have with our children and adults simply by paying attention to the results.  We couldn’t be more grateful for the support of this highly impactful program.” — David Finnane, Principal, BMLK
 
“I use mindfulness to calm down when I am mad, sad, or worried.”  Evelyn, 1st Grade
 
“Mindfulness has helped me make better decisions.”  —  Camora, 1st Grade
 
“Mindfulness is helping me be calm.” —  Jaelyn, 3rd Grade
 
"Mindfulness is helping me avoid fights and arguments.” —  Delonte, 3rd Grade

Kindergarteners, Leen and Jamaiah, practicing Mindful Breathing with the bell and Hoberman sphere. Mindfulness can help us focus, calm down when we’re upset, and act with greater compassion.