Objectives :
1 . Describe what sense of belonging means to you . 2 . Identify several ways to cultivate belonging in the classroom . 3 . Discuss how emotional intelligence contributes to increased sense of belonging . 4 . Explain one misconception about belonging .
Intended Audience : PK-12 faculty , admin , and support staff Emphasis : Institutional and co-curricular strategies for creating belonging Presenter :
Ashia Philippe is a 17 year veteran educator . Ms . Philippe spent 16 years of her career molding the minds of young learners in the elementary classroom at Susquehanna Township School District . Ms . Philippe now serves as the Advisor of Diversity Equity and Climate at Upper Merion Area School District .
She uses her passion for teaching and learning to facilitate change and advocate for equity and inclusion in the school setting . Ms . Philippe has lead DEI trainings and professional development for staff at her school while creating and implementing activities for students to bring awareness centered around culture and belonging . Additionally , Ms . Philippe has been a DEI presenter for virtual conferences . Ms . Philippe presented at the Capital Area Intermediate Unit Social Justice Conference Series , and at the Pennsylvania Educator Diversity Consortium 4th Annual Virtual Summit .
She is especially passionate about being a change agent for students and staff in the BIPOC community ; students that are underrepresented or misrepresented ; and supporting affinity groups . Her relatable personality allows her to make close connections with people from various walks of life . She has a knack for including people and giving them a sense of belonging . Ms . Philippe considers herself a life long learner . She holds two certificates of completion in DEI courses . Ms . Philippe has studied diversity , equity , and cultural competence in the classroom and has received training on racial equity in education . Her goal is to provide educators at all levels with the tools they need to be culturally inclusive , responsive , and relevant so that all students receive an equitable education to ensure their success .
Fostering a Culture of Belonging : Harnessing Faculty Learning Communities as an Institutional Strategy
This presentation dives into the instrumental role of Faculty Learning Communities ( FLCs ) as a strategic instrument in fostering a culture of belonging within academic institutions . Centered around the principles of inclusivity and collaboration , the session will investigate the definition and purpose of FLCs , highlighting their profound impact on faculty professional development and interdisciplinary engagement . The presentation emphasizes the critical importance of cultivating a sense of belonging in academic settings and demonstrates how FLCs align with institutional goals , especially in the areas of anti-racism , diversity , equity , and inclusion . Attendees will gain valuable insights into the concrete benefits of participating in FLCs , accompanied by practical implementation guidelines , success stories , and strategies for overcoming challenges . The session will conclude by addressing sustainability measures and envisioning future directions to seamlessly integrate FLCs into broader institutional initiatives .