The Power of Belonging: Schools and Public Health Working Together

Belonging is more than a feeling; it’s a foundation for mental health, academic success, and resilience in youth and is a social determinant of health. In the latest installment of its annual Vital Perspectives storytelling series, Southwestern Public Health explores how strong partnerships between schools and public health help create environments where students feel safe, supported, and valued. 

“When students feel like they belong, they are more likely to do better academically, socially, and emotionally,” says Cat McLean, Public Health Nurse. “Belonging can even buffer against the effects of trauma and stress.”  

According to the Canadian Community Health Survey in 2019 and 2020, seven out of ten youth over the age of 12 reported a very strong or somewhat strong sense of belonging to their local community. 

This chapter in the series features the voices of school administrators, including School Chaplain Natasha L. Contestabile, who shares,

“Belonging feels like they’ve been seen, we’ve seen who they are, and they don’t have to put on a mask or appearance.” 

Together with educators and families, public health teams are helping schools foster positive relationships, early mental health support, and inclusive classroom cultures. Through programs like the Recess Project, Food for Thought, Wellness Clubs, and many others, public health and schools are working together to create supportive environments that strengthen mental well-being, build connection, and promote a sense of belonging for all students.

"I think it’s great when kids are able to be a part of some clubs and activities when maybe they don’t have something else more traditional,” says Barb Ledgley, Public Health Nurse. “You see these kids develop over the course of a couple years of programs and their life just shines.” 

Youth who experience belonging have the opportunity to develop confidence and their self-identity. 

“It’s very important for me as a student because everybody treats me like I’m part of their family and I am part of their spirit. I wouldn’t be here without the [community] here,” says Ava Meadows, Grade 12 student.