In 2020, MBA Middle School received a grant to reimagine a space in our school. Considering the emotional and mental health needs of our students, we created a Mindfulness Room for students to access during study hall time or for various counseling groups. We also developed a Virtual Mindfulness website which has a variety of exercises students can engage with to bring them a sense of balance in life.
Each year, students, parents/guardians, and staff participate in Culture and Climate Surveys. The data is analyzed and used by the staff to create goals for the following school year. This helps to inform the theme for a school year, programming, announcements, and signage around the school. The Culture and Climate Committee helps to generate an action plan and monitor the progress the school is making toward these goals.
Beyond the traditional school counseling model supported by the School Counselor, School Social Worker, and School Psychologist, MBA utilizes additional strategies such as therapy dogs, yoga and mindfulness activities, and in-class brain breaks to support a student's need for balance in their daily lives.