Building Evidence for Mindfulness in Schools

How to Build Evidence for Mindfulness Programs in Schools

Mindfulness in education is growing, but research-backed programs are essential to avoid becoming a passing trend. Many educators develop mindfulness-based interventions but lack resources for proper efficacy studies. This guide explores how to build an evidence-based mindfulness program step by step.

Why Research Matters for School Mindfulness Programs

• Proves program effectiveness for students and teachers
• Ensures sustainable implementation in schools
• Helps secure funding and support
• Distinguishes evidence-based practices from trends

Step-by-Step: Researching Your Mindfulness Program

1. Define Your Program's Theory of Change

Ask:
- What changes does my program create?
- Why do these changes occur?
- Who benefits most?

Example: A program improving student self-regulation may lead to better classroom focus.

2. Choose Appropriate Research Methods

Start small before large trials:
- Qualitative methods (interviews, focus groups)
- Pilot studies with pre/post measurements
- Progress to randomized controlled trials (RCTs)

3. Secure Funding and Partnerships

• Apply for education research grants
• Partner with universities
• Publish preliminary findings

Case Study: CARE for Teachers Program

The CARE for Teachers mindfulness program shows how to build evidence:

1. Developed theoretical model (2009)
2. Small pilot RCT with promising results
3. Published findings on teacher stress reduction
4. Secured $3.5M federal grant for full RCT

Upcoming Workshop: Strengthening Evidence-Based Practice

Join the Garrison Institute workshop on April 26 in Denver to learn:

• How to design mindfulness education research
• Methods for measuring program impact
• Strategies for successful researcher-practitioner partnerships

Key Takeaways

• Start with small-scale studies before RCTs
• Combine qualitative and quantitative data
• Build evidence gradually through published research
• Partner with research institutions

Building research-backed mindfulness programs takes time but creates lasting impact in education.