Join us as we embark on the new school year with belonging as our mission. This 45-minute webinar will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to establish a supportive and thriving educational environment for both students and teachers.

During the webinar, you’ll:

• Explore the research of why the sense of belonging is so important in building supportive classroom communities.
• Hear examples from teachers and leaders in our Harmony Educator Advisory Group (EAG), who will share how they have instilled a strong sense of belonging in their classrooms and contributed to improved school climates.
• Discover Harmony resources that support building a sense of belonging in your classrooms.

Meet Your Presenter

Dr. Terrell Strayhorn 

Professor, Motivational Speaker, Educational Consultant 

Virginia Union University 

Dr. Terrell Strayhorn is one of the world’s most prolific and influential scholars in the fields of education, psychology, and the academic study of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. One of his core passions is translating research-to-practice in ways that improve the material conditions and lived experiences of our most vulnerable populations in society. He accomplishes this mission largely through the more than 3000 public talks, distinguished lectures, and keynotes he has delivered across the globe.

Joined by Our Panel of Inspirational Educators:

Anderson Manuel

1st Grade Teacher

Sudbury, Massachusetts

Mr. Anderson Manuel is an elementary teacher in Massachusetts for the past 27 years, holds a master’s in early childhood education. He has taught Kindergarten through third grade and currently teaches first grade. Mr. Manuel mentors new teachers through the New Teacher Induction Program (NTIP) and serves on his school’s Instructional Leadership Team.

Ashley Rhoads

Transformative Social-Emotional Learning Facilitator

Long Beach, CA

Leading with asset-based practices, Mrs. Ashley Rhoads’ core values are around equity and inclusivity. For the last 24 years, she has been employed by the fourth-largest urban school district in California and currently serves as a Transformative Social Emotional Learning Facilitator in Long Beach, CA. 

Kara Burnett

3rd Grade Teacher

Bronx, New York 

Mrs. Kara Burnett is a dedicated elementary educator in New York with over 12 years of experience. Her focus is on nurturing students’ social and emotional well-being through engaging lessons and strong personal connections. She is passionate about creating joyful, memorable learning experiences for her young learners. 

Certificates of Participation are shared for joining the live webinar. If you can’t join live, you can still sign up and receive a copy of the recording to watch at any time.