Compassionate Schools Project

Happy children sitting on mats

The Compassionate Schools Project (CSP) is the most comprehensive study ever undertaken of a 21st century health and wellness curriculum in an elementary or secondary school setting. The Group Randomized Trial was started in 2016 and a follow-up is scheduled to run through 2021. Fifty schools, over 625 teachers, and more than 6250 students will be included in the study.

Facilitating the integrated development of mind and body, the project interweaves support in academic achievement, mental fitness, health, and compassionate character. The research aims to have a major impact on children’s education nationwide in terms of academic performance, physical education, character development. With public elementary schools in Louisville, Kentucky as its proving ground in the 28th largest school district in the United States, the findings will be applicable nationwide. The Compassionate Schools Project is a partnership between the University of Virginia and the Jefferson County Public Schools, with support from Louisville Metro Government and financial support from philanthropic giving.

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News for CSP

Affiliated Graduate Students

CSP Featured By Time Magazine & Christian Science Monitor

Both publications recently highlighted the Compassionate Schools Project curriculum, which is being implemented in Louisville, KY classrooms.

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Compassionate Schools Project Teacher Wins ExCEL Award

ExCEL Award Winner Meghann Clem Mattingly

“I believe this to be more than a project. I believe this to be a movement. And being a part of this movement has been the biggest honor of my career yet.”

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