Part I: Origins of A Kindr Foundation
Part I: Origins of A Kindr Foundation
Doug and Linda Carnine’s story is one of unwavering dedication and profound impact, weaving a rich tapestry of educational reform and community empowerment. With nearly 100 years of combined experience as educators, they are not just leaders but pioneers in reshaping how we learn and live.
Doug’s journey began at the University of Oregon, where he immersed himself in evidence-based educational practices. His research focused on marginalized student populations, laying the groundwork for policies and practices that have uplifted countless lives. As a Buddhist lay minister, Doug found that Mindful Kindness was crucial for fostering empathy and well-being—a belief that has become central to their mission.
Linda, on the other hand, carved her path through Curriculum & Instruction and Special Education. Her hands-on experience as a teacher and administrator in diverse settings highlighted the importance of equitable access to quality education. Her passion for inclusivity extended beyond the classroom, driving her involvement in local indigenous land restoration initiatives and fueling her vision for a compassionate society.
Together, they founded the Kindr Foundation, a testament to their careers and personal missions. This initiative deeply integrates Mindful Kindness into educational and community settings, harnessing the power of education as a catalyst for healing and positive social change. The foundation was born out of a pressing need: the drastic rise in mental health challenges, loneliness, bullying, and suicide among young people. Doug and Linda recognized that children were not being taught positive mental health habits. They knew they could leverage their expertise to create an evidence-based curriculum using their proven teaching methodologies to make a lasting impact on these children’s futures.
Central to their approach is Direct Instruction (DI), a method they helped develop, renowned for its effectiveness in improving learning outcomes and fostering inclusivity. Through their leadership, the Kindr Foundation addresses societal challenges by promoting kindness as a core value in education and community interactions. Their programs have shown success in reducing negative behaviors and empowering individuals with tools for personal growth, resilience, and lasting happiness.
Doug and Linda’s work is not just a professional endeavor but a deeply personal one. Their lifelong dedication to kindness, mindfulness, and educational excellence inspires meaningful change, paving the way for a future rooted in empathy, equity, and inclusive growth. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring impact of compassionate leadership.
