A middle school student sits alone at lunch. He's anxious about making friends, yet desperate to have them. What's missing? According to Jen Schwanke, Ed.D., the answer might be simpler than we think: every student needs "a thing and a buddy." Whether it's trading Hot Wheels cars or joining the volleyball team, finding something to care about and someone to connect with can transform a student's entire school experience. Beyond safety and basic needs, identity might be the most powerful path to student joy. Read more in the newest ASCD blog: https://lnkd.in/eu8SBMup #SchoolLeadership #StudentWellbeing #SchoolCulture
