Unlock a treasure trove of learning-make room for belonging in school Belonging is an instinctual feeling: you know when you feel it-and you really know when you don't. Creating a sense of belonging in the classroom has a significant impact on student learning and well-being; it serves as a gatekeeper for other aspects of learning to take root. But how do we create classrooms and schools where every student knows they belong? This easy-to-use, illustrated playbook has you covered. 11 evidence-based modules feature actions and strategies that teachers can apply to help students feel more…mehr
Unlock a treasure trove of learning-make room for belonging in school Belonging is an instinctual feeling: you know when you feel it-and you really know when you don't. Creating a sense of belonging in the classroom has a significant impact on student learning and well-being; it serves as a gatekeeper for other aspects of learning to take root. But how do we create classrooms and schools where every student knows they belong? This easy-to-use, illustrated playbook has you covered. 11 evidence-based modules feature actions and strategies that teachers can apply to help students feel more included. Interactive features such as essential questions and reflective prompts are designed to engage educators and deepen their understanding of the importance of connection and belonging in a student¿s educational experience. Readers will find * Detailed coverage of the 11 dimensions of belonging * Evidence-based actions in every module to help foster belonging, balanced between elementary and secondary levels * Interactive features like Essential Questions, Two Truths and a Lie, Case in Point, What¿s Your Advice? and What¿s Next? to facilitate engagement and reflection * A highly visual illustrated style to promote comprehension and information retention By utilizing this playbook's strategies to create environments where students feel a sense of belonging, educators can help improve learning outcomes and academic performance while supporting the overall well-being of their students.
Dr. Dominique Smith is an award-winning educator, author, and school leader who has dedicated two decades to transforming schools into inclusive, safe, and empowering spaces for students and educators alike. He currently serves as Principal at Health Sciences High and Middle College in San Diego, California. Dr. Smith earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California. His dual expertise in education and social work uniquely positions him to bridge the gap between academic success, emotional safety, and equitable school culture. A passionate advocate for belonging, restorative practices, and leadership development, Dr. Smith has co-authored several influential books, including Belonging in School: Creating a Place Where Kids Want to Learn and Teachers Want to Stay, Better Than Carrots or Sticks: Restorative Practices for Positive Classroom Management, Building Equity: Policies and Practices to Empower All Learners, Leader Credibility, How Leadership Works: A Playbook for Instructional Leaders, and The Restorative Practices Playbook. In recognition of his commitment to fostering safe and supportive school environments, Dr. Smith received the National School Safety Award from the School Safety Advocacy Council. His TED Talk on building authentic relationships between students and teachers has inspired educators across the country to reimagine connection as the cornerstone of effective teaching and learning. Through his leadership, writing, and speaking, Dr. Smith continues to champion the belief that when students feel seen, heard, and valued, they are empowered to thrive - both academically and personally. His work challenges schools to move beyond compliance and discipline toward cultures of belonging, accountability, and restorative growth.
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Introduction Overview: Dimensions of Belonging Module 1: Welcomed Module 2: Invited Module 3: Present Module 4: Accepted Module 5: Known Module 6: Supported Module 7: Befriended Module 8: Involved Module 9: Heard Module 10: Needed Module 11: Loved Epilogue: Where Do We Go from Here?
