What conditions are necessary to allow us to experience a deep sense of belonging with all our identities, complexities, and contradictions? Belonging should not be a “nice to have.” It’s a neurobiological necessity for learning and participation. When students feel they belong, they engage fully in their education. Fostering belonging is not just about creating inclusive spaces; it is about transforming the system to serve all students equitably. What if we prioritized belonging as an essential condition for addressing persistent gaps in educational outcomes and unlocking human brilliance?