Building School Connectedness

This study examines school connectedness as a multidimensional construct influencing student engagement, academic performance, and well-being. Through a synthesis of existing research, the paper identifies key strategies for fostering connectedness, including whole-school approaches, relational support systems, and inclusive policies. Drawing on evidence from various theoretical models—such as the Health-Promoting School framework and the Index for Inclusion—the study highlights the importance of student-teacher relationships, participatory decision-making, and peer support in creating a positive school climate. The findings suggest that while interventions promoting school connectedness have shown promise, further research is needed to evaluate their long-term impact and adaptability across diverse school contexts. This paper underscores the necessity of sustained, evidence-based strategies to enhance students’ sense of belonging and prevent disengagement.