Everyone Belongs Here: Introducing New Districtwide Monthly Themes

Welcome back! We are so excited to begin a new school year with our students, families, and staff. As we start the year together, we are excited to introduce a new district-wide initiative: Monthly Themes focused on building connection, community, and a strong sense of belonging across our schools.

Each month, we will highlight a different theme that encourages our students and staff to reflect on how we treat ourselves, one another, and our school community. These themes will provide a shared message and language that we hope will strengthen the important work already happening in our schools and create meaningful opportunities for connection throughout the year.

Our theme for September is “Belonging.” Belonging means knowing that you are welcomed, accepted, valued, and an important part of a community. Whether your child has been part of our district for years or this is their very first day, they belong here.

As we begin the school year, we encourage our students, staff, and families to look for ways to help others feel welcomed and included. Say hello to someone new. Invite someone to join you. Take the time to listen. Show kindness. Sometimes, even the smallest gesture can make a meaningful difference in helping someone feel that they belong.

Together, we can create schools where every student can say: “I am welcomed. I am valued. I am part of this community.” Here’s to a wonderful school year filled with connection, kindness, and a strong sense of belonging for everyone! 

A big thank you to Lauren Buchanan, Department Chair of School Counseling, and her entire school counseling team for organizing this initiative. We're grateful for the thought and care they've put into building something that will benefit our students and staff all year long.

Be on the lookout for activities and events this month connected to Belonging!