PoM empowers educators to teach local PreK-8th grade students mindfulness, brain science, conflict resolution, and social justice. More young people are facing mental health challenges even as many lack access to social-emotional learning resources. PoM’s comprehensive curriculum equips them with the tools they need to manage stress, self-regulate, and build healthy relationships. Every year, more than 6,000 students participate in weekly lessons in schools across the city. Younger students practice mindfulness, establishing a foundation of care for themselves and others. As they grow in confidence, PoM introduces the neuroscience behind strong emotions and guides them through de-escalating conflicts. By grade 8, students are versed in applying these skills to address community issues and injustices. Reaching more kids where they are through digital programming, PoM is raising the next generation of peacemakers to transform the world.

Headquarters: DC-Ward 3

Where They Operate: DC-Citywide; MD-Statewide; VA-Statewide

Age Groups Served: Pre-K (3-4); Youth (5-11); Pre-teen/teen (12-17)

Population(s) Served: Individuals with Disabilities; Individuals who identify as LGBTQ; Low- to Moderate-Income Community Members; Men/Boys; Women/Girls; Students; Immigrants/Refugees

Schools They Work In: Ida B. Wells Middle School; Elsie Whitlow Stokes Public Charter School; Ross Elementary School; Horace Mann Elementary School; Lafayette Elementary School; Seaton Elementary School; Brookfield Montessori; St Andrews Episcopal School; Charles E Smith Jewish Day School; Bannockburn Elementary School; Groveton Elementary School; and many others


  • Number of students we serve annually in the DC metro area:   3,500+
  • Percent of Peace of Mind students who say skills help them inside and outside of the classroom:   97%

Awards & Recognition

Keynote address at National Network of State Teachers of the Year 2020

Commendation from the DC Board of Education for Peace of Mind founder Linda Ryden's work 2019

Press

Budget (FY2023)

  • $3 million or higher
  • $1 million to $3 million
  • $500k to $1 million
  • The current budget for Peace of Mind is: Less than $500k

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