TEACH the kids how to meditate, and it won't be so hard for people to catch on.
The problem with meditation is that most people don't get to the first base where the benefits are. They give up too soon, but like anything if they could have that first success, they would embrace it.
Schools programs would help that. The failure rate has a lot to do with social acceptance - if it was accepted then people would be more willing to give it a try, and to keep trying past one attempt that doesn't work great.
The benefits are many and very concrete- stress reduction mostly.
Health improves, people do better and are happier - worthy goals for an option class at school.