Understanding Teacher Wellness Strategies: A Focus Group Investigation into Current Practices and Needs

Building on prior research demonstrating mindfulness for teachers delivering behavior interventions, this focus group study explores the broader spectrum of wellness strategies teachers employ. Through semi-structured discussions with diverse educators, we aim to identify current wellness practices, implementation barriers, and synergies between mindfulness and other self-care approaches in educational settings. Participants will be able to: 1. Understand the connection between teacher wellness and classroom management effectiveness, particularly in inclusive settings serving students with disabilities. 2. Learn about the research progression from single-strategy interventions (Soles of the Feet mindfulness) to comprehensive wellness approaches identified through teacher focus groups. 3. Gain insight into focus group methodology for understanding teacher experiences and learn how to apply research findings to enhance their own classroom management practices and support colleague wellness initiatives.