March 31, 2016
“Mindfulness” has become an increasingly popular term, especially when it comes to education.
Nancy MacKay, B.A.; Jim Strouse, M.A.; and Jen Dirga, M.S.W.
Lunchtime Seminar March 31, 2016 (39:32 min.)
“Mindfulness” has become an increasingly popular term, especially when it comes to education. But what is it, and what does it look like in the classroom? In the seminar, the presenters answered these questions, sharing findings from a pilot to integrate mindfulness practices into Open Circle’s social and emotional learning (SEL) professional development and curriculum. Through the pilot, 27 teachers participated in a four-day SEL training program that reviewed the definition of mindfulness, the rationale for incorporating it in education, and specific practices for educators and their students. The research findings presented showed the extent to which educators implemented these mindfulness practices, as well as its impact. The interactive presentation also included demonstration and instruction of a few mindfulness practices introduced through the pilot.
As Open Circle Co-Director, Nancy Mackay, B.A. brings years of experience as an elementary teacher and a passion for making a difference in children’s lives to her work. Before joining Open Circle, MacKay was principal owner of Baker-MacKay Associates – a training and consulting firm for non-profits. Jim Strouse, M.A. and Jen Dirga, M.S.W. are Program Managers at Open Circle. Both Strouse and Dirga bring years of experience in public schools and higher education to their work with Open Circle.
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