This report synthesizes findings from Project Heal, an initiative launched in 2021 by the RIM Institute in collaboration with Generation Schools Network (GSN). The project employed the Regenerating Images in Memory (RIM) approach, a neuroscience-based technique designed to enhance emotional wellbeing in students and teachers post-pandemic. This report outlines the study design and presents detailed findings from two studies examining the impact and application of RIM. The insights gained aim to inform and guide ongoing efforts to address the complex emotional challenges in educational settings exacerbated by the pandemic.

Post-Pandemic Challenges for Students and Teachers

The pandemic’s persistent impact, compounded by school shootings and socioeconomic disparities, has inflicted generational trauma on students and their families. For example, “the pandemic adversely affected student mental health, leading to an increased prevalence of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). This may have a significant impact on their mental health issues such as frustration, stress, and sadness” (Li, 2022, p. 1). Rising rates of depression and anxiety, in addition to drug addiction, suicide, and gun violence have overwhelmed students, leading to disruptive behaviors in the classroom. Teachers, feeling ill-equipped and unsupported, struggle to manage these challenges, particularly with at-risk students. On the flip side, improved emotional wellbeing in students has been shown to reduce absenteeism and enhance their academic potential.

The Solution: Project Heal Using the RIM Approach

Project Heal

Project Heal was launched in 2021 by the RIM Institute in partnership with Generation Schools Network (GSN). The initiative employs the RIM Approach to address the increase in student anger and disruptive behavior observed in schools after they resumed in-person classes following COVID-19 shutdowns. The goal is to enhance the emotional wellbeing of students to improve resilience and alleviate stress and burnout among both students and teachers and ultimately enable students to swiftly transform negative emotions into positive ones, thus maintaining their engagement and receptivity to learning.

Read More… Report: Findings from Project Heal