Your weekly source of learner-centered inspiration
Dear Educator,
When young people (and adults) feel pressured to “fit-in” in ways that are not healthy to their overall identities around gender, physical appearance, color of skin, sexuality, and other aspects of themselves, they are not at optimal emotional states to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully.
Given what we now know about the influence of our environments on learning, it seems clear that creating an equitable and inclusive learning community shouldn’t be considered an add-on. At Learner-Centered Collaborative, we have a variety of protocols that we’ve implemented to create a sense of belonging within our own team and with our partners. A sense of belonging is foundational to learning and living our lives to our fullest potential.
I believe that to create these environments for young people, it's critical that we start with the adults. For this week’s Bright Spot, I’m sharing how one school district creates a sense of belonging by forging connections between teachers.
With Gratitude, Katie
I'd love to hear from you! Reply to this email to share your Bright Spot this week!
BRIGHT SPOT OF THE WEEK
Creating Inclusive Communities
This week, I had the opportunity to work with teachers in Mesa Union Schools. We began by connecting and learning about ourselves and each other, and the teachers shared how impactful it was to connect with one another and learn more about each other. These 6 Word Memoirs were what teachers created and shared with the group.
When we know who we are and can show up as our full selves, and others can too, we can create more inclusive communities where we can work together to accomplish our goals.
Interested in exploring how you can create a sense of belonging and forge inclusive communities in your context? Let's connect!
Below are some resources to support your efforts in developing a sense of belonging in your learning community.
1. Success and belonging. Engagement and feeling a sense of belonging are inextricably linked. This Forbes article article uncovers 3 ways to nurture them, applicable to both schools and the workplace.
2. Connection over content. Discover strategies for engaging students and creating meaningful learning experiences in the classroom in this blog post.
3. Challenging the status quo. Get to know 4 learner-centered leaders whose actions inspire others to think big, take risks, learn from challenges, and positively impact students in my latest blog post.
LET'S SHARE OUR BRIGHT SPOTS!
How are you creating a sense of belonging in your learning community? Use #LCBrightSpots to share your experiences on social media!
Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Sign up here
Connect with Us:
Learner-Centered Collaborative, 49 Stevenson Street, San Francisco, CA 94105
