Mental Health & Executive Function

Supporting mental health in schools has become increasingly important. Educators and administrators are more and more aware of the profound impact mental health has on students’ academic performance and overall well-being. One key area of focus is the development of executive function, which is essential for students to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Executive function encompasses a set of cognitive processes that include working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control. These skills are vital for students to manage their thoughts, actions, and emotions effectively. By creating supportive and nurturing school environments, we can help students develop these crucial skills and improve their mental health.

The prefrontal cortex, located at the front of the brain, is responsible for executive function. This part of the brain continues to develop throughout childhood and adolescence, making school a crucial period for fostering these skills. Stress and negative environments can significantly impact the development of the prefrontal cortex, hindering students’ ability to regulate their behavior, focus on tasks, and manage their emotions. Therefore, schools have a unique opportunity to create welcoming and affirming environments that support mental health and executive function development. By promoting positive relationships, encouraging social-emotional learning, and implementing trauma-informed teaching practices, schools can help students thrive both academically and emotionally.

At EdQuiddity, one of our online Professional Learning Essentials (PLEs) is expressly designed to support school districts in developing executive function skills in classrooms. Our PLE on Executive Function: The Pathway to Student Achievement delves deep into essential topics such as social-emotional learning and trauma-informed teaching. Educators will gain valuable insights into how to create supportive classroom environments that foster the development of executive function. Through interactive modules, practical strategies, and instructional practices, our PLE equips teachers with the tools they need to support students’ cognitive and emotional growth. By focusing on these areas, we can help students build the skills necessary for success, empowering them beyond academics. Check out the image below that previews our Trauma-Informed Environments module, packed with new insights and ready-to-go downloadable resources for teachers to print and use right away!

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The Skills That Transfer: What Problem Solving Builds Beyond the Content

By Dr. Shané Beauford • October 8, 2026

When designed intentionally, PBL builds a plethora of durable skills in students. A primary class is working on creating greeting cards to share with a local nursing home. Students in a middle school math class are designing models and drafting proposals for the community garden near the school. High school students are advocating for social justice through a social media campaign featuring their artwork. On the surface, these are great PBLs that focus on various content skills, but when we dig deeper, we uncover the durable skills at work.