Building Tech to Build Belonging

As schools confront student disengagement, absenteeism and mental health challenges, belonging has emerged as a critical driver of student success. But how can technology support deeper human connection instead of replacing it? In this panel session, leaders from education and edtech explore how thoughtfully designed technology can strengthen relationships, increase belonging and free educator capacity so teachers can spend more time knowing and supporting students. Drawing on research, school partnerships and real-world implementation examples, panelists examine how design decisions influence student experience and school culture, and how co-design with young people, educator feedback and student voice can shape more effective technology adoption. You will learn practical strategies for evaluating whether tools increase meaningful interaction, reduce educator burden and create more opportunities for relationship-building. Designed for district leaders, instructional leaders and edtech innovators, the session leaves you with actionable ideas for selecting, implementing or designing tools that strengthen the human relationships at the center of learning.