In the final episode of the three-part Summer Series, Belonging, School Culture, and the Joy of the Work, host Dr. Denise Ball welcomes back Dr. Anita Harkins-Mehsling, Associate Superintendent for the Archdiocese of Omaha.

Denise and Anita explore the important connection between belonging, joy, teacher retention, school stability, and the overall health of a school community. Their conversation considers how leaders can move belonging beyond a one-time welcome and make it part of the rhythm, language, practices, and lived experience of the school throughout the year.

They discuss why joy grows when people feel connected to one another and to a shared mission, how belonging can help educators feel less isolated, and why small, sincere, and consistent leadership practices can make a lasting difference.

As school leaders prepare  ...