Abstract

Interest in integrating mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) into primary and secondary education systems to reduce educator burnout and attrition is rapidly increasing at a policy level. However, most MBIs focus on delivering mindfulness to students over educator wellbeing, leaving little resources for wellness-focused training. Additionally, MBI research to date has focused on effectiveness through quantitative approaches, resulting in the omission of subjective perspectives. In the current study, we examined a complementary program–Stress Management and Resiliency Techniques Education (smartEducation)–which focuses on developing mindfulness skillsets in educators. Through a retrospective inductive qualitative content analysis of 86 participants’ reflections, we sought to clarify educators’ perspectives on the effects of the program and the potential mechanisms of change through which the program had these effects. We found that (a) smartEducation participants experienced positive program effects and acquisition of mindfulness skills that affected individual wellbeing as well as producing a significant “cascade effect” downstream (e.g., students, colleagues) and (b) found support for four potential mechanisms of change. The smartEducation program represents a preventative mental health initiative tailored to educators. With the current levels of burnout and attrition amongst educators, further research, policies, and implementation of complementary approaches are more vital than ever to bolster educational communities.