Wellness and Achievement: The Need to Belong

Based on an earlier blog post that discussed the power of relational learning and its connection to school culture, it will not come as a surprise that belonging at school, too, is the outcome of relationships found in a school. There are three key relationships that a student has in the school environment that combine to influence their feeling of belonging; the degree to which they feel connected to the school, the relationships they have with their peers, and the relationships they have with their teachers. 

 

Each of these relationships are meaningful and the connection to these relationships which are developed in the small and fluid moments of each day are what shape belonging in a school.

 

At KBS, we understand the importance of these relationships to creating belonging and each day employ intentional strategies to positively influence the small and fluid moments. We greet students and families at the door each day, spend time with our students outside of the classroom in clubs, athletics, lunch or after school programs, we invite parents into our school at drop off and pick up in addition to hosting social moments during the school day. These may not seem like significant time consuming activities, yet their impact is noticeable and has ongoing positive outcomes on one’s sense of belonging.

 

Some may see belonging as something over which we have limited control. We see it differently and we see it as an important part of a student’s and by extension a family's elementary school experience.

 

Until next time, stay well.

 

Head of School

Kempenfelt Bay School