At Montgomery Upper Middle School, the Yoga Club has emerged as a vital part of students’ wellness routines, helping them cultivate healthy habits at an early age. Spearheaded by Stefanie Lachenauer, the club emphasizes mindfulness, stress management, and building strong relationships, fostering a mental health-friendly environment within the school and the wider district.
Lachenauer, an educator at Upper Middle School and the New Jersey Teacher of the Year for 2024-2025, established the club a decade ago with a $2,000 grant. Reflecting on its creation, she explained, “I was noticing that students were increasingly stressed. I was earning my yoga certification and wanted to combine what I was learning about neuroscience with practical support for students.” The program began as a trial run, but its positive impact quickly became evident.
Seventh grader Alexa Ryan values the Yoga Club for its stress-relieving benefits. “It helps me unwind and take a break from homework,” she said. Fellow seventh grader Olivia Mistretta joined for the chance to enjoy yoga with friends and appreciates Lachenauer’s inclusive approach. “We had Ms. Lachenauer for Skills for Success, and we loved her class. Yoga Club allows us to have fun with friends, especially if we can’t see them outside of school,” Mistretta shared.
Beyond yoga sessions, the club promotes a culture of mindfulness. Students create and distribute positive message bookmarks around the school library, reinforcing an atmosphere of positivity. “Little things like leaving an uplifting message in a book can really brighten someone’s day,” Lachenauer explained. The club has also designed bulletin boards highlighting various mindfulness techniques.
For some students, the club has been a way to foster friendships. Lachenauer noted, “It’s been heartwarming to see students who weren’t enjoying school or felt isolated form meaningful friendships and improve their social skills through the club.”
The Yoga Club’s success lies in its emphasis on simple, foundational habits. Members focus on practical wellness strategies such as staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and walking more throughout the day. As Lachenauer prepares for her sabbatical, Ms. Lara Katz will take over leadership. Exciting activities like mindfulness projects and hot chocolate celebrations are planned, blending wellness with fun for future participants.
Open to all UMS students, the Yoga Club remains a supportive space where students can relax, connect, and build lasting skills for maintaining balance and well-being.
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