Mindful Leadership: Exploring the Role of Mindfulness in Cultivating Adaptive and Resilient School Leaders

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 9:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Developing Reflective Leadership Practices: Mentoring, Feedback, and Well-Being

Abstract

Mindfulness practices have deep historical roots and are supported by a growing body of scientific research for improving mental and physical well being. Grounded in research on adaptive leadership, leadership identity development, and the history of mindfulness, this qualitative study explores the ways in which mindfulness practices support PK-12 public school leaders in the northeastern United States. Findings indicated that many leaders adopt maladaptive coping strategies to navigate the complexities of the current educational climate. Mindfulness practices support leaders with reducing stress, strengthening self-awareness, and enhancing adaptive and resilient leadership capacities. Importantly, participants did not experience mindfulness training in their educational leadership preparation programs. This study concludes with recommendations for integrating mindfulness into school leaders’ preparation and ongoing development.

Authors

• Gerald Maraia, Brooklyn College - CUNY

• Pedro J. De La Cruz Albizu, Brooklyn College - CUNY