The Bedford Education Foundation has funded numerous grants over the years focused on the mental health and cognitive development of the student population. Student support grants play a vital role in helping educators assist students in recognizing and rising above barriers to learning. Student support initiatives reduce stress, improve academic performance, strengthen abilities for concentration and help children and educators thrive as a community of learners.

Prior grants by the BEF that have developed and enhanced student support in the Bedford Schools include training in the Mindful Schools techniques, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, classroom Yoga, and the Igniting Sparks curriculum.

Each of these programs assisted teachers with exploring and implementing different approaches to help students at every grade level overcome obstacles to their academic success while promoting overall mental health. These programs have helped students maintain focused attention, form more accurate perceptions of each other, work cooperatively, and think more clearly, especially under pressure.