In the Spring of 2016 I received a Certificate of Completion of the smartEducation Mindfulness for Educators course from The University of British Columbia.  The program involves experiential activities in mindfulness including: secular meditation, emotional awareness, self-regulation, and movement. Weekly meetings included presentations and group discussions.  Participants also benefited from daily at home exercises in support of the program.  As an Educator with a strong focus on meeting the social and emotional needs of my students, I desired forming a better understanding of mindfulness strategies and practices so that I may go forward in my process as a facilitator of mindfulness in the classroom.

Course format
The 20 hour program is delivered in a workshop setting, with a minimum of 12 and a maximum of 25 participants and consists of 8 two hour sessions and a 4 hour silent retreat. The course is non-religious and non-sectarian and is delivered by smartUBC accredited instructors.
Successful participants receive a certificate of completion from UBC Faculty of Education in cooperation with channel delivery partners.

Course outcomes

The course trains educators to:

Manage stress through a greater understanding and control of emotions
Employ self-care techniques to cultivate personal and professional resilience
Create effective strategies for relating to challenging situations
Have personal experience to support other programs for students in mindfulness
Enhance concentration and executive function (planning, decision-making, and impulse control)
Revitalize purpose, personally and professionally
Improve personal overall mental and physical health
Promote happiness through healthy habits of the mind

SMART involves experiential practices that promote:

Concentration, attention, and mindfulness
Awareness and understanding of emotions
Empathy, compassion, and positive interpersonal communication