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COMMUNITY & BELONGING
A Place to Be Yourself. A Place to Belong.
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High school is about more than academics. Students need to feel safe, respected, connected, and comfortable being themselves.
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At Ledyard Charter School, our small community gives students the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with both peers and adults. We intentionally create a school culture where students are known as individuals, differences are respected, and everyone has a place in the community.
Unconditional Positive Regard
Students deserve to be treated with dignity and respect—even on difficult days.
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LCS staff approach students with empathy, patience, and unconditional positive regard. We separate the student from the behavior, recognize that mistakes are part of growth, and work to maintain strong relationships even when challenges arise. Students know that the adults at LCS are in their corner.
Social Coaching & Suppport
Sometimes social skills need to be taught and practiced, too.
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Staff help students navigate friendships, communication, conflict, boundaries, self-advocacy, and other everyday social situations. Rather than simply reacting when something goes wrong, we help students understand what happened, problem-solve, repair relationships, and build skills they can carry into adulthood.
Building Friendships & Connection
We create opportunities for connection—not just hope they happen.
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For students who have struggled to find their place in larger school environments, a small community can make a meaningful difference. Staff intentionally encourage connection through collaborative activities, shared interests, group experiences, and opportunities for students to spend time together beyond their usual classes.
Community Events & Recreation
Some of the most important connections happen outside the classroom.
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School celebrations, community events, recreation days, field trips, and shared experiences give students and staff opportunities to have fun together and strengthen relationships. These experiences help build the sense of community and belonging that carries back into the school day.
