A Large-Scale Evaluation of School-Based Mindfulness Programming and Student Outcomes in Elementary Education

Authors: Jenay Bartlett, Hayleigh Moran, Joshua Felver

Field of Study: Masters in Social Work

Faculty Mentors: Joshua Felver

Easel: 42

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: School-based mindfulness programming (SBMP) is widely used in public schools and demonstrates promising outcomes for reducing stress and promoting health in youth; however, large-scale evaluation of SBMP among diverse student populations has yet to be conducted. Reducing student stress via SBMP may also help mitigate racial disparities in educational outcomes that contribute to long-term health inequities. This study uses a quasi-experimental longitudinal cluster design to evaluate the SBMP “Inner Explorer” in Broward County Public Schools. Five years (2020-2025) of archival data from approximately 75,000 elementary students and 4,500 teachers across 150 schools will be analyzed. Longitudinal hierarchical linear modeling will examine whether SBMP implementation is related to beneficial student outcomes, including achievement, attendance, and disciplinary incidents, and whether a dose-response relationship exists. This study represents the largest evaluation of SBMP in U.S. public schools to date and will inform district decision-making and broader implementation of mindfulness programming.