Could creating schools where students feel a profound sense of connection and belonging be our New Year resolution? 

This commitment may sound idealistic, but it is crucial for the well-being and success of our students. Human beings inherently crave connection and belonging. When students feel a sense of connection and trust within their school community, they are more likely to actively engage and bring their authentic selves forward.

john a. powell reminds us that denying our connectedness leads to ‘othering,’ a process that not only denies someone’s humanity but also erodes our own. Creating spaces where young people and adults feel a sense of belonging is not just possible; it’s necessary. It involves intentional efforts to uplift each other with empathy, care, and a commitment to positive change.

At its core, that is the purpose of implementing SEL in our schools and classrooms: to create conditions where children can thrive. Within SEL, the HEART in Mind model provides a framework for intentional teaching and integration of HEART skills into the fabric of schools and classrooms. To learn more, grab a copy of Teaching with the HEART in Mind or sign up to be in the loop of upcoming workshops and events.

SEL nurtures the emotional and social well-being of students, in addition to enhancing their academic achievement. By paying attention to our shared need for love and belonging, educators can create an environment that fosters authentic connections and makes possible a wide range of positive academic outcomes, such as better test scores, increased attendance, and graduation rates.

Three Tips to Increase Connection and Belonging

• Foster inclusivity through student engagement: Increase students’ opportunities to be involved in decision-making processes, giving them a sense of ownership. This could include revisiting classroom rules collaboratively, allowing students to decide how they will show mastery of an academic standard, and/or creating a student advisory committee to provide feedback about school and classroom-related issues.
• Create safe spaces for expression: Establish routines where students feel safe expressing their thoughts and emotions. This can be facilitated through regular check-ins, circle time discussions, or journaling activities. The goal of these routines should be to affirm students’ identities and also nurture positive relationships.
• Implement SEL practices in everyday teaching: Integrate SEL into academic subjects to make learning more meaningful. Use the HEART in Mind model as a guide, emphasizing skills such as empathy, self-awareness, and purpose in everyday lessons. Check out the resources page to download a 3-step guide to integrate SEL into lesson plans.

As we embrace the new year, let our resolution be to build schools where connection and belonging are not just aspirations but integral parts of the learning experience. By incorporating SEL practices and the HEART in Mind model, educators can foster environments that nurture the emotional well-being of students and contribute to meaningful academic learning.

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