School communities where all students feel a sense of belonging is essential for academic and social well-being, according to Education Week News.
Research and education leaders discussed the importance of students feeling connected to their schools in a recent webinar. The benefits: improved regular student attendance, academic performance and mental health. But there are obstacles to success: belongingness and community are often not represented in the curriculum and clubs; the politics of education issues; and the absence of strong relationships between students and adults.
Every student is different, and if differences are politicized and/or polarized, these students are at a higher risk of feeling disconnected. Schools need to prioritize students’ sense of belonging, using strategies such as mentoring, service learning, student-led clubs, and classroom-management training to build connectedness and higher engagement. Keys to extending students’ sense of belonging beyond the classroom: open communication with families and creating trusting relationships. Confront obstacles to build inclusive environments that make all students feel valued and supported.
Education Week News
