Mindful Education in the Schools
Mindful Education in the Schools (MES) began right here in Iowa with a simple, powerful goal: to support the social, emotional, and interpersonal skills students need to thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally- by helping raise happy, healthy and safe kids.
Founded in 2016 by former elementary teacher Molly Schreiber, CEO of Challenge to Change, Inc., MES was designed specifically for school settings. Through 30-minute, live, in-classroom sessions, students learn practical tools for self-awareness, emotional regulation, collaboration, and focus—all aligned with Iowa SEL competencies and CASEL standards.
A Program Educators Trust — and Students Respond To
I had the privilege of joining this work in its early years, delivering MES programming directly in classrooms. As a former public school music educator (PreK–12), I immediately recognized the overlap between what strong arts education and mindfulness-based learning provide:
Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, Creativity, Collaboration, and a Sense of Belonging.
Because this program is taught by instructors who understand classroom dynamics, behavior management, and school culture, educators consistently share how easy it is to integrate—and how quickly students engage.
Grounded in Training. Guided by Experience.
This work didn’t just shape my teaching practice—it reshaped my professional path. Inspired by the impact I saw in schools, I completed both my 95-Hour Registered Children’s Yoga Teacher (RCYT) and 200-Hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) certifications. These trainings are now also available locally through Safe Harbor Yoga, helping grow sustainable, community-based mindfulness education right here in northwest Iowa.
For those interested in the program’s roots and philosophy, you can also read more in my book, Molly’s Path, written during my time with Challenge to Change.
Why Schools and Families Choose MES
✔ Standards-aligned with Iowa SEL and CASEL frameworks
✔ Evidence-informed and used successfully in 99+ Iowa schools
✔ Minimal prep for staff — we bring everything needed
✔ Neutral, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate
✔ Supports counselors, teachers, and administrators alike
Whether you’re a school leader seeking a practical SEL solution, a counselor supporting student well-being, or a parent advocating for whole-child education, MES offers a proven, accessible way to support students where they learn every day.
If you're an educator or administrator looking for meaningful, standards-aligned learning that strengthens school culture and student well-being—this work makes a lasting difference.
"You, Kayla, are what make this program great. We love having you!"
-Katie, a school Principal
"Through this program, our Chargers are strengthening student resilience in order to positively impact stress management, self-esteem and decision-making, while assisting in the regulation of emotions to reduce emotional distress and conduct problems. Our staff is also involved in PD to help guide their students with the resources this program offers."
- Hannah, School Principal