Belonging & Connection

We believe that a strong sense of belonging is the foundation for every child’s growth. Learning to be part of a community—where each child is respected as an individual while also contributing to a shared environment—helps children develop key social and emotional skills that last a lifetime. Through daily practices of collaboration, communication, and empathy, our students discover how to be both independent learners and active participants in a caring community.

Building a Classroom Culture

From the first day of school, children are welcomed into an environment that shows them they belong. In preschool and prek, this may be as simple as seeing their names on cubbies or their photos in the classroom, signaling that they are a valued part of the group. In kindergarten, students take this further by naming their class together at the start of the year—an act of collaboration and pride that fosters ownership and community. Whether it’s naming the class, designing their own space, or defining how they want to treat one another, children build a strong foundation for community while gaining the confidence to explore and contribute.

student practicing writing and math

students and teacher sitting in a circle on the floor of classroom

Learning Social and Emotional Skills

Emotions are part of learning, and at Evergreen, children are supported in understanding and expressing their feelings from the very beginning. Students practice naming emotions, talking about how they feel, and developing strategies to manage challenges. Social–emotional learning is intentionally woven into routines, providing daily opportunities for problem-solving, conflict resolution, and respectful communication.

Predictable Routines and Safe Structures

Young children thrive when they know what to expect. Arrival rituals, class meetings, and closing circles provide a sense of security and help children build self-regulation and independence. These routines create a dependable rhythm to the day, giving students the confidence to take risks in their learning and relationships.

student washing hands

Belonging to the Larger Community

Connection at Evergreen extends beyond the classroom. Buddy programs pair preschool and prek children with older students, fostering friendships across ages and teaching empathy and leadership on both sides. School traditions—from assemblies to family events—help children see themselves as part of something larger, strengthening their sense of identity and belonging.

From Parallel Play to Collaboration

In the Early Childhood years, play is the path to community. Preschoolers begin with parallel play, learning to share space with peers. Over time, this develops into cooperative play, where negotiation, empathy, and teamwork emerge. In kindergarten, group projects, circle time, and class discussions provide more structured opportunities to practice collaboration and communication. This gradual shift from “me” to “we” helps children understand that being part of a group doesn’t mean losing individuality—it means finding strength in working together.

2 students playing together

2 students holding hands wearing safety vests

What It All Adds Up To

Through belonging and connection, Evergreen children learn how to be part of something larger than themselves. They gain the confidence to express their feelings, the comfort of predictable routines, the joy of school traditions, and the skills to collaborate with both peers and older buddies. By the time they finish kindergarten, they are not only ready for the next stage of learning but are rooted in a deep sense of community, responsibility, and care for others.