The Power of Belonging: Woods Creek 5th Graders Grow, Empower, and Thrive

At Woods Creek Elementary, inclusion isn’t just a goal; it’s a daily practice. Fifth-grade teacher Rachel Schweitzer and Cross-Categorical teacher Cailey Bell have seen their students build meaningful connections that embody District 47’s mission to ‘Grow, Empower, and Thrive’.

“This year, Cailey’s three fifth graders joined my class for Number Corner and Whole Group Reading,” shared Schweitzer. “They’ve also joined us for the Pledge of Allegiance this month. From the start, I worked hard to model inclusive behaviors, but some of my fifth graders have become true leaders of inclusivity out of the goodness of their own hearts.”

What began as small, intentional moments has grown into a culture of genuine friendship and belonging. Schweitzer and Bell have both witnessed the way students look out for one another, from learning side by side in class to playing together at recess.

“Our students feel a genuine sense of belonging when they enter Rachel’s classroom each day. The best part of this experience is that they are treated as classmates and not visitors,” said Bell.  “Because of the students’ kindness, my students are more comfortable taking risks to participate and have become more confident in themselves.”

Schweitzer noted that her students’ compassion has even brought her to tears on several occasions. “Recently, we earned an ice cream Paw Party, and my students wanted to make sure Mrs. Bell’s students were included,” she said. “Another day, two of my students stepped in when a classmate wasn’t being included at recess. They spoke up and reminded others to be kind and understanding. Moments like that remind me why I teach.”

The bonds have grown so strong that Schweitzer’s students often ask, “Why can’t Mrs. Bell’s kids be in our room all day?” A question that shows just how naturally they’ve embraced their classmates. These 5th graders have shown that friendship and belonging go hand in hand.

Bell added, “My students have grown both academically and socially due to the inclusive environment in Mrs. Schweitzer’s classroom. Fifth graders have stepped up and gone above expectations to make everyone feel like a valued member of the class. For this, I am truly grateful.”

Together, Schweitzer and Bell say this experience has been a powerful reminder of what happens when classrooms unite. “We’ve loved working together to celebrate inclusivity,” Schweitzer said. “It’s brought us and our students so much joy.”