Common Good Collective

Reader

This Reader is an expression of Common Good Collective, a vision for an alternative way, rooted in the act of eliminating economic isolation, the significance of place, and the structure of belonging. Whether you come at this from a place of economics, social good, or faith, we hope these reflections help orient your day in fresh, provocative, courageous ways. And most importantly, we hope these lead you into the sharing of gifts in particular communities—into co-creating a common good.

We read hundreds of articles and select the best ones for you by sending them to your inbox on Thursday.
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Connecting with Students During the Pandemic

Teachers have had a critical part to play in the mental health of the world’s children during the pandemic. Here, three professors in psychology share their advice on how to show help our children feel they are a part of the school community safely.

How to Help Students Feel a Sense of Belonging During the Pandemic
By Mary C. Murphy, Kathryn Boucher, and Christine Logel

Do I belong at this school? How students respond to this question is closely linked to whether they succeed and thrive.

According to our research, students who feel a strong sense of belonging are more engaged and more likely to join school organizations, take on research opportunities, and make connections with peers, faculty, and staff. Not only that, students who feel like they belong in school earn higher grades and opt into and succeed in more difficult courses.

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Courageous Youth

The leadership at Oakland-based Urban Peace Movement knew that the young people they encountered were bright and capable of great things. What those young people lacked was “a seat at the table,” especially when it came to addressing issues around incarceration and the alternatives available through restorative justice. So, Urban Peace Movement formed Communities United for Restorative Youth Justice. Real change followed.

Researchers Draw on Life Experience to Address Youth Incarceration
By Emily Nonko

One year ago, 19-year-old Xochtil Larios was incarcerated at Alameda County Juvenile Hall, a sprawling facility located atop a winding drive in San Leandro, California, about 10 miles south of Oakland. Larios had been in government systems, whether foster care or juvenile detention, since the age of 12, but this time would be different — thanks to Communities United for Restorative Youth Justice (or CURYJ, pronounced like “courage”).

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