What does it mean to truly belong?
For Bloomington High School special education teacher Dr. Brandon Thornton, it’s simple: belonging is having a space where you can be yourself—and knowing you are valued for exactly who you are.
“Our differences unite us more than they divide us.”
That message is at the heart of United in Belonging, District 87’s September focus for our year-long #D87United campaign.
Dr. Thornton has spent 16 years teaching at BHS and believes belonging is something we create together. Whether you’re a student walking into a classroom or a new staff member joining District 87, you should know there is a place for you here.
And Dr. Thornton doesn’t just talk about belonging—he helps create it every day.
In addition to teaching, he is involved with the Future Teachers Club, coaches the Speech and Debate Team, and serves as an assistant coach for BHS Cross Country. When a student comes to him with an idea for a club, activity, or sport and asks for his help, it’s hard for him to say no. Each opportunity is another chance to help students find their people, get involved, and feel connected.
Because at D87, our differences don’t have to separate us. They can bring us together.
Now that’s what it means to be United in Belonging.