Event Details

At every stage of human development, belonging is central not only to our ability to survive, but to thrive. Research tells us that when students feel a strong sense of belonging, the outcomes for their success are unmatched. As educators, we all want to create experiences that foster belonging in our classrooms and schools.

But how do we create a sense of belonging in the face of systemic inequalities and the unmitigated challenges of our times?
What strategies and approaches actually change a student’s experience, especially during times when they do not have a sense of place within their school community?

Informed by her two decades of school leadership, Carly Andrews will explore the research on Belonging with an eye toward the ‘wise interventions’ that are making a difference in schools. Turning to the scholarship of Geoffrey Cohen and john a. powell, we will imagine and plan “wise interventions” that will deepen students’ experience of belonging in our own schools and classrooms.

Meet Our Special Guest!

We are thrilled to welcome longtime Sofia Center collaborator Carly Andrews – a visionary educator who has spent her career supporting childrens’ developmental journeys from preschool through high school. Carly brings wisdom, compassion, and joy to all she does – and we are in for a real treat! Carly currently serves as the Executive Director of the Alliance for Early Childhood in the Chicago area. She has also served as Head of School and in other leadership positions at Baker Demonstration School in Wilmette, Illinois; Willowwind School in Iowa City, Iowa; and Bosque School in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Carly is passionate about engaging inquiry-based models for teaching and learning; designing meaningful teacher professional development experiences; and supporting children, families, teachers, and leaders through the challenges of the pandemic. Welcome, Carly!

Registration

This professional development event is offered free of charge, but registration is required. Upon registration and again on November 16th, you will receive a Zoom link for the event.

Gratitude

We are deeply grateful to our generous donors, collaborators, community partners, and volunteers for making this event possible.

Cultivate Belonging in Your Classroom & School

Part of the Reflect : Innovate : Act Series

Team Members