Building Belonging and Status: Regan Davis

In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Regan Davis, middle school teacher at Langley Christian School, Baylor M.A. in School Leadership student, and one of the educators featured in The Happiness Crisis, about why belonging and healthy status are so important during the middle school years. Through Langley's four-day sailing trip, Regan shares how experiences outside the classroom can help students build confidence, strengthen friendships, and see themselves in new ways.

This conversation explores practical ways schools can foster belonging without lowering expectations. Regan explains why students need more than comfort and convenience. They need opportunities to take risks, contribute to their community, and discover what they're capable of.

Mentioned:

The Happiness Crisis by Jon Eckert

10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People by David Yeager

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

How to Know a Person by David Brooks

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Baylor MA in School Leadership