Are there differences in urban middle school students’ sense of belonging based on race, gender, and grade?

Authors

• Shana AbbottFollow

Files

Description

This study examines student sense of belonging and student/teacher relationships in an urban middle school, with a focus on differences across race, gender, and grade level. Research suggests that a strong sense of belonging is linked to improved academic outcomes, consistent attendance, and social-emotional well-being, yet disparities in belonging and student/teacher relationships persist among diverse student populations. Using a quantitative design, data will be collected through a validated student survey measuring perceived belonging, and student/teacher relationships. The sample will include students in grades 5 through 8, representing a range of racial and gender identities.

Publication Date

4-30-2026

Keywords

urban education, student sense of belonging

Recommended Citation

Abbott, Shana, "Are there differences in urban middle school students’ sense of belonging based on race, gender, and grade?" (2026). RCAC 2026 Posters. 29.
https://scholarworks.merrimack.edu/rcac_2026_posters/29