Overview

In collaboration with Pure Edge, Inc, Kearny BST 9th graders learned about mindfulness and its connection to their physical and mental well-being. Students then took their skills to various events and created products to teach others about practicing mindfulness in an effort to enhance their health.

Project Initiation

The launch occurred in Sept. in the Kearny E2E lab. Our client, PE resource teacher, Lynn Barnes-Wallace explained her vision for this project, which was to help others recognize the role that mindfulness plays in supporting physical health. Lynn introduced Ms. Contreras from Pure Edge, who flew from the Bay Area regularly to train students on the value and practice of mindfulness, preparing them to train other students, teachers, parents, and various members of the education community. 

Project Exploration and Development

In English, students learned how to present information to diverse audiences, applying these lessons both locally and nationally, as well as live and virtual. In AVID, students set goals and used journaling to reflect. In Biology, they learned about the body/brain connections, feedback and nervous system. In Biomed, they designed and conducted experiments, using biofeedback sensors; such as heart rate, breathing and blood pressure. In technology, they created websites and GIFs for mindfulness. Guest speakers such as Fire Rescue, a Medical Examiner and a Public Defender spoke about their careers, impact of stress and how to cope. 

Project Revision and Exhibition

Ms. Contreras assessed their growth monthly to provide feedback for future focus. Students led mindfulness sessions at Wegeforth Elem. They also led brain breaks at a meeting made up of staff, parents, students & community members. We planned to present at the Society of Adolescent Health & Medicine and the Society of Health and Physical Educators conferences. Students leaders were in a film campaign and online panel to share experiences to a national audience.

Teachers and Subjects

Daina Weber - English / AVID
Jennifer Ogo - Biology / Principles of Biomedical Sciences
Corri-Anne Burgess - CS Discoveries

Leading Mindfulness at Linda Vista Cluster Meeting

Leading Mindfulness at Wegeforth Elementary 

Pure Edge Student Panel

Mindfulness GIFs

Mindfulness Websites Developed Through Code

Mindfulness Infographics