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From June 23–26, the Christina School District proudly hosted its inaugural Belonging Conference at the Bayard School in Wilmington, Delaware. This four-day professional learning experience brought together over 200 educators, administrators, and community partners in a shared commitment to creating more inclusive and affirming learning environments for students.

Participants included representatives from across Delaware school districts—Christina, Appoquinimink, Brandywine, Laurel, Cape Henlopen, Capital, and New Castle County VoTech—as well as Las Americas Aspira Academy, Gateway Charter School, and educators from New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The conference also welcomed voices from the Delaware Department of Education, the University of Delaware, and a wide range of faith-based and community organizations.

The first day of the conference opened with powerful welcome messages that set the tone for the days ahead. Participants were encouraged by remarks from Dr. Cora Scott, Deputy Secretary of Performance Support at the Delaware Department of Education, and Dr. Deirdra Joyner, Superintendent of the Christina School District. Both affirmed the importance of collective effort and the core value of bravery to ensure that all students, families, and staff feel a deep sense of belonging. They emphasized that students cannot truly aspire to their full capacity if they do not feel seen, safe, and valued in their schooling experiences.

Although Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester was unable to attend in person due to her congressional schedule, a member of her team joined the conference to read aloud a heartfelt letter of support. In it, Senator Rochester praised the aspirational goals of the Belonging Conference and offered words of encouragement to the educators leading this work. Governor Matt Meyer also sent a letter extending his support and celebrating the district’s bold commitment to inclusion and equity.

Dr. Nathalie Princilus, Supervisor of Grants and Unique Programs for Christina School District, grounded attendees in the spirit of belonging through the words of Maya Angelou: “I long, as does every human being, to be at home wherever I find myself.” She reflected, “That longing—for belonging, for acceptance, for being seen and valued—is what brings us together. In Christina School District, we believe that cultivating spaces where students and staff feel at home is not just important; it’s essential. Belonging is the foundation for learning, growth, and healing.”

The Belonging Conference featured international keynote speakers, interactive panel discussions, and targeted professional learning tracks. Every element of the experience was designed to foster courageous reflection, promote equity-focused practice, and affirm the identities and experiences of all students.

“This conference is not a standalone event; it’s a powerful and intentional milestone in our ongoing equity journey,” said Dr. Princilus. “I’m incredibly proud of the collaboration that brought this vision to life, and deeply grateful to every educator and partner who helped dream this into reality.”

Christina School District extends its heartfelt gratitude to every attendee whose presence, participation, and passion made the conference so meaningful. Your willingness to show up, lean in, and lead with care—especially the members of the CSD Equity Teams and participants of the Saturday DEIB Academy, whose feedback called for deeper learning—served as the catalyst for this conference and brought its vision to life.

Planning is already underway for next year’s Belonging Conference, which will expand its scope and continue to serve as a statewide platform for connection, capacity-building, and collective impact.