Head’s Corner: What Belonging Looks Like at Saklan

On a regular basis, we ask students in grades 3-8 to complete an anonymous survey about their experience of belonging and inclusion at Saklan. At its core, the survey asks a simple question: Are we keeping our promise that Saklan is a place where students feel seen, heard, and valued? Do they experience Saklan as a safe learning environment—one where relationships are central to learning?

The survey serves as an important check for us. It helps us understand what is working well and where we may need to pause, reflect, and make adjustments based on what students are telling us.

We are currently analyzing the first semester’s results from students in grades 3–8, and we are proud of both the work we do and the community we share. The data points to a strong sense of belonging at Saklan, while also highlighting a few areas where we can continue to grow.

One of the most illuminating parts of the survey is the open-ended question that invites students to elaborate on what helps them feel they belong at Saklan. Their responses, shared below, tell a powerful and authentic story.

Belonging through relationships

• “When people hang out and talk with me, support me, and accept my options.”
• “When people invite me to play with them.”
• “When I’m sad, my friends make me feel better, and my friends just make me laugh.”
• “Even when I don’t want to play the same game as my friends, there is always someone to play with.”

Belonging through acceptance and inclusion

• “Having friends, and being accepted for who I am.”
• “Being respected a lot, for who I am.”
• “I like how everyone hangs out with whoever they want, rather than being separated by gender or how you act.”
• “I feel like I belong at Saklan.”

Belonging through adult care and attention

• “I always know I can go to a teacher when I am sad or need help with my homework.”
• “My teacher always helps me and tries to make me understand the answer.”
• “Teachers pay a lot of attention to me.”
• “When teachers explain why they can’t get to me yet, I still feel heard.”

Belonging through safety and voice

• “I feel safe to share my thoughts and ideas.”
• “Saklan is such a small community, so everyone knows each other.”
• “If I feel left out, there is always a teacher who will help work it out.”

Belonging through structure, leadership, and shared experiences

• “Something that helps me feel like I belong is advisory.”
• “Family groups, the ability to be creative, and the fun interactive experiences.”
• “When I am teaching a younger student, I feel a sense of joy and it makes my day.”
• “When I come back from being sick or a trip, my classmates welcome me back with smiles and hugs.”
  

We believe transparency and listening are essential to building a strong school community. For those interested in exploring the data more deeply, the full student survey results are linked here. We’re grateful to our students for their honesty and thoughtfulness, and we remain committed to using their feedback to strengthen belonging, relationships, and learning at Saklan.

With Gratitude,

David