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Creating Spaces that Promote Belonging Graphic link in bio

Creating Spaces that Promote Belonging

David Jakes

In my school design work, I always spend time in the school’s spaces when no one is present.  I want to see how and what the school’s spaces communicate on their own without people present.  Almost all of the classrooms I visit reflect that the space is the teacher's domain, with desks facing forward towards the front of the room, with a technology display and a teacher's desk.  Things on the classroom walls are important to examine, too - most are decorative in nature, and sometimes, they present important things for kids to do or remember.  

That’s not to say there aren't good things that happen in that space.  And every teacher I talk with wants to create a healthy environment for kids that supports learning.

A great redesign can start there by rethinking how the space supports learning. Begin by creating spaces that resonate with students, energize them, and surround them with the community required for their growth and development.  You can start that design process by focusing on creating spaces that promote belonging.

Belonging is a fundamental human need, deeply ingrained in our nature. It's the glue that binds individuals to their communities, shaping identities and fostering a sense of purpose. In education, belonging is not just a nice-to-have.  It's essential for students to flourish, and it's why they, along with educators, gather in schools on a daily basis.  Educators must strive to create environments where every student feels valued and connected and where they belong.

Ask yourself this:  How do your students see themselves in the spaces of your school?  How are spaces designed to reflect students, their learning, and the potential that all students possess?

Here are four considerations that support the development of belonging in schools.

Diversity and inclusivity. Schools should be mirrors that reflect the diversity of their communities. This involves incorporating elements that represent students’ identities, backgrounds, and achievements. An inclusive environment celebrates differences and encourages students to bring their whole selves to school, fostering a rich assemblage of perspectives and experiences that can serve to develop a collective identity.

Equity and Equality. Belonging also means ensuring equity and equality within the educational environment. This means providing all students access to the same high-quality resources while addressing each learner's unique needs. By doing so, schools affirm the value of every student and reinforce their sense of belonging within the school community.

Comfort. A sense of belonging is closely tied to feelings of physical and emotional safety. Schools must be places where students feel secure and welcomed. Comfortable, safe environments are foundational for learning, allowing students to focus on their school work without fear or reservation.

Ownership and Agency. Finally, fostering a sense of ownership among students is crucial for cultivating belonging. When students perceive the school space as their own, they are more engaged and invested in their learning. Giving students agency to shape their educational experiences (and spaces) empowers them, reinforcing that they are an integral part of the learning process and school community.

Creating belonging in schools requires a holistic approach that considers space design, equitable access, inclusivity, safety, and student agency. By addressing these factors, educators and their design partners can create environments where all students feel accepted and a part of the school community. Such environments are not just settings for academic instruction but are places for developing confident, connected, and successful individuals that are contributing members of their community. Let's commit to making every school a place where every student can say, "I belong here."

David Jakes

David Jakes’ career as an educational designer has been influenced by the variety of roles and positions that he has held over 35 years. As a classroom science teacher, David developed a deep understanding of teaching and learning that has served as a foundation for his entire professional life. As a school administrator, David provided leadership on a wide variety of school opportunities and issues, including the application of educational technology to the school experience. During his time as an educator, David developed an interest in design and learning spaces and joined The Third Teacher+ Design Studio of CannonDesign, an international design firm. David served as a digital learning strategist and had an opportunity to work across the United States on a variety of K-12 and higher education design projects, all in the service of designing contemporary spaces for teaching and learning. Today, David serves as the founder and lead designer for David Jakes Designs LLC, a design studio dedicated to reshaping education through the creation of inspiring learning environments.