At Upward Together, we have seen firsthand the daily stress and unpredictability that can make teaching feel overwhelming. Many educators struggle to find practical ways to support both their students’ emotional needs and their own well-being—without adding more work to an already full plate.
This challenge led our team to explore mindfulness, neuroscience, and the power of creative practices that can be woven naturally into classroom routines. When these tools were introduced into classrooms, the results were immediate: smoother transitions, calmer students, and a stronger sense of classroom community.
Through partnerships with organizations such as the Los Angeles Unified School District, the Arts for Healing and Justice Network, and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, Upward Together has supported teachers across diverse school communities in integrating quick, trauma-informed practices that fit seamlessly into the school day.
Over time, we developed a growing library of ready-to-use tools, classroom rituals, and reflection prompts that have been piloted and refined with educators in real classrooms. These practices are designed to be practical, creative, and supportive for teachers—helping build calmer learning environments without adding extra burden.
Calm Class was created to share these strategies in a simple, accessible format.
www.upwardtogether.art
