Building Community: Belonging and Connection in the Classroom

Episode SummaryOn this episode, I share how gratitude, new beginnings, and community connection shaped my first official day in Winnebago Public Schools. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about the small things that grounded me—my old RAV4, laughter with new staff, and even the screws that helped me build classroom tools—and how gratitude sets the tone for meaningful work ahead.I reflect on our community tour of the Winnebago reservation and how powerful it was to see where my students live, what their neighborhoods feel like, and how the culture, history, and daily realities of the community shape their stories. From waving kids to seeing local landmarks and meeting a tour guide deeply rooted in the area, the experience broadened my understanding and my empathy.This episode connects those reflections to what matters most in teaching: building trust, honoring students’ identities, and understanding their world before expecting them to learn in ours. Visiting the community changes how we teach, how we relate, and how we build belonging within our classrooms.I close by encouraging educators to find their own ways to connect to the communities they serve and to see these connections as essential—not optional—in building authentic, student-centered classrooms where every learner feels seen, understood, and valued.Show Notes• I share three things I’m thankful for and why gratitude grounds my teaching.• I describe my first day with new staff and the joy of shared laughter.• I talk about the power of taking a community tour in Winnebago.• I reflect on understanding students’ neighborhoods, culture, and lived experiences.• I explain why community-based professional development matters for every district.• I share how seeing students’ world gives context that changes teaching.• I encourage teachers to explore their own students’ communities.• I offer a reflection question about connecting to community.Key Takeaways• Community connection strengthens belonging and trust in the classroom.• Visiting students’ neighborhoods gives teachers context before content.• Understanding culture and community deepens empathy and relationships.• Every district benefits from community tours or neighborhood engagement.• Authentic classrooms grow from knowing who students are and where they come from.