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School Connectedness Helps Students Thrive
School connectedness is when students feel that adults and peers in school care about their learning as well as about them as individuals. This includes a sense of being cared for, being supported, and belonging at school.
Schools play a critical role in promoting students’ health and development and can take action to help students feel connected.
Why is Connectedness Important?
When youth feel connected to their school, they are less likely to experience:
- Poor mental health
- Sexual health risks
- Substance use
- Violence
Other Benefits of Promoting School Connectedness
School Connectedness and Health Equity
School connectedness is beneficial to all students, but not all students benefit equally. Youth who report experiencing racism, youth from racial and ethnic minority groups, and youth who identify as LGBTQ+ often feel less connected at school.
Schools can play an important role in putting in place connectedness strategies that are inclusive and centered on reducing health disparities.
School Connectedness and Resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in disruptions to school operations, and increased stress and trauma for many youth and their families. CDC research shows that youth who reported feeling more connected at school during the COVID-19 pandemic were less likely to report poor mental health even when they attended school virtually
School Connectedness has Lasting Effects
School connectedness has long lasting effects on health and well-being. Youth who feel connected at school are significantly less likely to experience health risks related to sexual health, substance use, violence, and mental health in adulthood.
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