Lynwood Unified Mental Health Program to Provide District Community with Specialized Resources

 
Lynwood Unified School District is expanding its mental health initiatives through the Mind and Body Awareness Program, which aims to inform educators and students on the foundations of trauma, mindfulness, and self-care practices.

The inspiration behind the Mind and Body Awareness program stemmed from the effects of a post-pandemic teaching environment. The program provides specialized resources for teachers who might be struggling with mindfulness and self-care so that they can better teach students who are having similar experiences.

“These strategies are important to our community as they promote equity and healing for our students and families,”] DeputySuperintendent Dr. Shawna Dinkins said. “We see this as part of our mission to support all members in being global citizens. We want to equip our staff, students, and administrators with the skills to be mindful as we navigate post-pandemic situations.”

Lynwood Unified will host sessions where participants learn a wide spectrum of mindfulness techniques that can be used in the classroom or at home, including breathing techniques, affirmations, and grounding activities. Participants can also use the many resources available to them through office hours and coaching sessions.

The program is currently offered through a hybrid approach, which includes in-person and virtual sessions, and is available for administrators and specialized certificated teachers. Sessions were kicked off in August during an administrative retreat.

“Programs such as Mind and Body Awareness continue to ensure our teachers and students are set up for success,” Superintendent Dr. Gudiel Crosthwaite said. “I’m proud to see our District leaders take the initiative and provide these unique resources for teachers and students.”

Through the District’s Youth Leadership program, the Mind and Body Awareness program is set to include students during the spring semester of the 2022-23 school year.

 

Oct. 10, 2022

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