GCSD Mindfulness Newsletter
Spring Edition 2024
We strengthen our community by inspiring, building presence, and cultivating a healthy mind and body.
A Note From the Team - by Dr. Valerie Paine
There has been much excitement and hoopla about the total solar eclipse on April 8th. We are fortunate that Rochester is situated in the path of totality of the eclipse and will experience 3 minutes and 38 seconds of complete totality. This is a rare and awe-inspiring event, so I would encourage you to take some time to appreciate the beauty of nature during this unique occurrence. That said, it is important to consider just how we appreciate the uniqueness of every day. As we early anticipate special events or milestones, let’s also remember to value and find joy in the present moment. Each day holds its own magic and opportunities for growth and happiness. Let’s remember to embrace the richness of even everyday life being present with all that it offers.
The Mindfulness Team continues to offer various professional learning opportunities that can be found in Frontline. The Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course is being offered again this summer if you are interested in working on professional learning hours before September. Registration is open and space is limited. The team is also offering a Mindfulness Retreat on April 20th if you would like a self-care experience. Our team looks forward to continuing to cultivate mindfulness in our community and supporting you!
In mindfulness,
~Val
Accessible Yoga: Poses and Practices for Every Body Paperback – Illustrated, November 5, 2019
Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul Paperback – April 6, 2010
We've all seen the happiness on the face of a child while playing in the school yard. Or the blissful abandon of a golden retriever racing across a lawn. This is the joy of play. By definition, play is purposeless, all-consuming, and fun
Tech for Teacher Wellness: Strategies for a Healthy Life and Sustainable Career Kindle Edition
Paddy Hill
Brookside
Athena
Mindful & Me Club with Michelle Potter at English Village
Arcadia Basketball Team
Longridge
Pine Brook
Olympia & Odyssey Varsity Flag Football
Mindful movement at the ELC
Mindful movement with the Arcadia HS Basketball Team
Exploring mindfulness & life with Craig Hamilton
Calm App: if you use your NYSUT number to register, you can get access to the premium version.
Family Yoga Day at the Early Learning Center
Families make a heart during family yoga
Families play freeze dance during family yoga
Principal Mike Ferris and his daughter practice mindful listening
Family Festival
Mindfulness Events
Elementary Teachers - Mindful Moments Videos
You can now access archived Mindful Moments videos. For more information, click here.
* Newsletter Raffle! *
Our Mindfulness Team
Andrea Antonetty - TOSA for Mindfulness
Shanna Calvasina - Inclusive Education - Olympia
Stephanie Canale - Elementary Teacher - Longridge
Julie Parsons - Director of Elementary and Early Childhood Education
Michelle Potter - Math Intervention Teacher
Lori Quinn - TOSA for SEL and Equity
Twitter: @GCSDMindfulness