Despite the growing prevalence of mindfulness in schools, the empirical landscape describing best practices for implementation is incomplete. The purpose of this project was to develop a framework that explicated the steps and considerations for implementing mindfulness at the whole\u2010school level, rather than just considering individual classroom programs or practices.<\/p>\n
The Whole School Mindfulness (WSM) conceptual framework was developed using a consensus\u2010building approach with 39 expert educators, researchers, program developers, and practitioners with unique perspectives on what is needed to implement and sustain mindfulness successfully in schools. Information was gathered across three initial meetings and a 2.5\u2010day conference using a process inspired by Appreciative Inquiry; notes were used to create a consensus document that was reviewed and augmented by attendees. Expert contributions were aligned and expanded upon using existing organizational change and implementation science frameworks across various disciplines. The WSM framework, with four phases of development, is structurally similar to other frameworks, but accounts for unique needs related to mindfulness including professional development of personal mindfulness for leaders and school staff, the importance of voluntary engagement in practices, and consideration of contextual and cultural issues.<\/p>\n