By Phillip Brooks, NAIS Research Analyst
February 2026
Belonging is a fundamental and universal human need closely tied to well-being. Belonging to a community means feeling accepted, respected, and valued. In a school, a strong sense of belonging among students brings numerous benefits. When students feel connected to the school, they are more likely to engage in their lessons, feel safe, and persevere through academic and personal challenges.
Students interpret various environmental cues to assess whether they belong in a school community. These include interpersonal interactions, the visible success of individuals who share their identity markers, and opportunities to participate and shape their environment. When students perceive threats or feel undermined, their sense of belonging begins to erode. As this sense fades, so too does their interest in learning within the school setting—their engagement in the life of the school diminishes.
This new NAIS Research Advisory summarizes key findings from current research in the field to help schools develop and implement effective strategies for fostering student belonging. Sections include:
- Current Landscape: Belonging Among Students
- The Role of Engagement in Belonging
- Theoretical Frameworks for Student Belonging
- Obstacles to Student Belonging
- Recommendations for Fostering Student Belonging
Downloadable Content
- Read the full NAIS Research Advisory: Fostering Student Belonging: Frameworks, Challenges, and Strategies for Inclusive School Communities (PDF; member login required)