Originally published on My Journal Courier on Aug. 3, 2024

A new law awaiting the governor's signature would put more emphasis on mental health by requiring schools to have periods in which relaxation techniques are taught.

Senate Bill 2872 would require all schools to provide at least 20 minutes a week that focus on stress-relieving activities, outside of normal recess periods.

North Greene Superintendent Jackie Kuchy said this is something the district has already been working to provide, so it isn't something she is worried about implementing.

"We've been working on certifications for Calm Classroom, which is a program based on mindfulness," Kuchy said.

The district is working with the Greene County Health Department to train several teachers on the program, which helps with emotional regulation, mental health, mindfulness for both teachers and students.

"This isn't a total inconvenience, actually," Kuchy said. "We have some teachers that have used yoga practices intermittently in classes. The grant allows us to train a significant portion of our certified staff."

The bill would require at least 20 minutes of "mindful-based movements, yoga, stretching, meditation, breathing exercises, guided relaxation techniques, quiet time, walking, in-person conversations, and other stress-relieving activities."

While the period of time can not replace a recess, it can take place of a physical education class, study period or advisory period.

Sen. Rachel Ventura, D-Joliet, championed the bill, saying a balance between learning, self-care and relaxation has to be met.

“We have to emphasize the importance of having a balance between productivity and self-care within the context of education,” Ventura said. “This instills a mindset in our young people that encourages both academic achievement and the well-being of their mental health.”

By helping to provide balance in the classroom, Ventura said she hopes it'll help with youth mental health, improve learning and encourage growth in schools.

“Balancing productivity with self-care is needed, and we are encouraging schools to incorporate more of this approach in every day practice,” Ventura said. “By providing time for students to learn relaxation techniques and focus on their mental health, they will have better outcomes in the classroom and be set up for a lifetime of knowing how to prioritize their mental health.”

Schools like A-C Central have already implemented programs. Last year, the Chandlerville Elementary School implemented a program for its pre-kindergarten through third grade students to work with the students once a week on physical and mental well-being through yoga.

In October, Elementary Principal Ashley Trueblood said the students have expressed their enthusiasm for the program and they have see a good reaction from them.

"Some were skeptical; they didn't think the kids would respond the way they did," Trueblood said. "The teachers have made comments about how much calmer (students) are coming back into the classroom."