By Alyson Showell LaPorta
As the school year begins to wind down, it’s a powerful time to pause and reflect on the impact of our work across the city. One recent visit brought that impact into sharp focus.
I had the joy of visiting the High School for Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) to observe Inner Strength instructor Jazman Dobson in action. Her session blended mindful movement and breathwork with ease, inviting students into calm awareness while keeping them fully engaged. Watching her lead the room with clarity and care was a beautiful reminder of the power of presence.
Guidance Counselor Ms. White joined the session as well, offering encouragement and participating right alongside the students. She later shared how much she appreciates having Inner Strength at CAPA and how strongly she hopes to see the program return next year.
After the class, I stayed to listen as the students rehearsed a choral arrangement of “The Storm is Passing Over.” Their voices filled the room with such grace and strength—it felt like a fitting soundtrack to the end of the year and a reminder of the resilience that lives in these students every day.
As we close out the year, moments like this speak to the deep value of mindfulness in schools—not just as a wellness tool, but as a foundation for connection, clarity, and self-trust.
ISE Instructor Jazman leading some mindful movement with cues for the students on the smartboard.
