Last March, when school buildings closed as the pandemic spread, I wrote a commentary about what I felt was most important in distance learning: connecting with my students. During our remote school experience this school year, I’ve met my students’ siblings and pets, seen favorite stuffed animals and Lego creations, and even been treated to a piano performance. Despite the physical distance, my students managed to come together as a community of unique individuals. It is essential as we are returning to in-person instruction that we build on that sense of community to create an affirming school climate. A positive learning environment is essential for re-engaging our students and meeting the needs of the whole child as the pandemic recedes.