Once a month, Creston Elementary students file in to the classroom of Jane Shantz, the school’s success coordinator and at-risk counselor, to learn a bit of mindfulness for decompression and self-reflection as they take part in a new program, Challenge to Change.
Challenge to Change is a program designed by former school teacher Molly Schreiber, the founder and CEO of Challenge to Change. Its mission is focused on the practices of fitness yoga, meditation and mindfulness to teach lifelong wellness skills benefiting the mind, body, and spirit of people of all ages.
“We are our best selves when our smart minds are connected to our kind hearts and our calm bodies,” said Schreiber.
The program was brought to the district as a result of the $50 million Iowa received in federal fund through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. The district is also using the money to incorporate sign language, additional STEM resources and writing workshops in to the school’s current curriculum.
Shantz’s Challenge to Change class helps students be more mindful with their intentions when it comes to taking care of themselves, others and their space.
“We’re giving them some tools to self regulate (behavior), go inward, get in touch with themselves so that they make the right choices to bring kinder and better little citizens,” said Shantz.
During a session with fifth grade students, Shantz asked students questions about their place within their environment as they sat across the carpet in relaxed positions with their eyes closed. Shantz’s introductory session involved deep breathing, hand gestures and physical movement. Students entered the classroom visibly squirmy but became relaxed and attentive within the 20 minute session of talking and stretching to music.
“Stretching the body is good for everyone,” said Shantz. “It helps your brain and helps kids become physically stronger.”