This October twenty students, ten from Donovan Middle School and ten from JFK Middle School, came together for a transformative mindfulness mini course led by Mikelle Deck, Young Scholars student support coordinator and owner of Aligned Minds Mindfulness Consulting.

The session invited students to slow down, connect with themselves, and build positive emotional awareness. Through engaging bonding activities, participants explored their emotions in a safe and supportive environment while learning a variety of mindfulness practices including yoga, meditation, EFT tapping, and other grounding techniques.

Beyond skills, building the course created space for community and connection. After the workshop, students shared a meal together and continued conversations about how mindfulness tools can be used in daily life. One student expressed how impactful the experience was, saying:

“I wish this program was offered in school. I would do this every week.”

Mindfulness and being present are powerful tools for healing and emotional regulation, skills that are essential for young people navigating stress, school pressures, and personal growth. Teaching these practices early not only supports their current well-being but sets out a foundation they can carry throughout their lives.