What does it truly mean for every student and educator to feel like they belong? In this week's episode, I had the honor of interviewing Rachael Thrash, co-founder of Belong Hub, to explore how schools can move beyond surface-level inclusion and create authentic, identity-affirming spaces.
Drawing from her work with international schools around the world, Rachael shares powerful insights on student-led belonging initiatives, the importance of centering student agency, and the practical steps educators can take to dismantle barriers that prevent all members of the school community from thriving.
To learn more about Rachael's work, you can follow her on LinkedIn.
BIO: Rachael Thrash is a master teacher who has spent her career supporting students and teachers facing questions that matter. Rachael believes that student learning is a process that begins with each individual’s perspective. Inciting students to question initial understandings encourages them to broaden their awareness and develop a commitment to thoughtful action.
With a Masters from Brown University, Rachael has taught Humanities and English in independent US schools, public community colleges, and international IB schools. She launched a school-wide enrichment department providing co-curricular learning for preK-12 students while developing a mentor program for early career educators. Most recently, Rachael taught MYP English and led the growing Service as Action program at the International School of Helsinki.
LINKS:
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