When students feel seen, valued, and supported, they thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Belonging is an advising practice dedicated to strengthening school belonging for all members of a school community, beginning with the children.

I take a research-based approach to enhancing the student experience at school by focusing on the key elements that foster a sense of connection and inclusion.

My work centers focuses on these three areas:

Supporting families in navigating the educational system and ensuring their voices are heard in their children's school experience.

Equipping teachers and school leaders with the tools and strategies to create inclusive, belonging-centered learning environments.

Advancing the understanding of school belonging through evidence-based research and thought leadership to inform policies and practices.

Testimonials:

  • Your support in these last several meetings has helped us make more progress than we could have any other way. I’ve also really appreciated our conversations, because you helped me feel less isolated in this process.

  • Max has the ability to listen beyond the words that are shared. He is able to connect on a deeper level and pull you past the current moment into a place of understanding and clarity. You walk away with clear and actionable next steps. He is a life saver.

  • From day one Max made it a priority to make me feel comfortable and supported in my role as a new teacher in the school he led. His willingness to do whatever it took to make sure I had everything I needed to do my job shaped the positive experience I had working under his leadership.

  • I attended Max’s training at the ATTACh conference in Minnesota. I am an adoptive parent and a school social worker so I related to him very well. I was in tears at the end of his session, just connecting with his story.

  • When you talk with Max you can quickly see his heart and intentionality. He works to deeply understand and listen to the experience children have had and are currently having in the school system. His work expands how you think about belonging and what it really means to have spaces where everyone feels seen. There is no doubt that working with Max will help you create a deeper sense of belonging for the people you serve.

  • Dr. Max goes above and beyond to provide skills, resources, and opportunities for individuals while providing guidance, humanity, and grace. He is a true asset to our world and he uses his gifts, intellect, and wisdom to better the world for the next generation.

  • Here's the story that stands out to me most: I had the joy of spending a day shadowing Max when he was working as a school principal. The intention to foster belonging was at the heart of every interaction I observed with students, teachers, and families--especially among those whose experiences or identities gave them an 'outsider' status.

  • Max was my 5th grade teacher. 17 years later I remember the impact he had on my school experience. You can just see that not only does he have the passion for what he does, but a huge talent! He made sure every kid felt included and no one felt left out. He also took the time out to make sure that we really understood the lessons he taught us.

  • Max has been one of the greatest teachers I've had during my teacher preparation courses. He was always very understanding and flexible, characteristics that are of high importance in the education field. I always looked forward to his class because of his genuine and helpful personality. If I needed any guidance or help I knew I could reach out to Max and he would help with no hesitation.

  • I've known Max Professionally since 2012. He's been a friend since then too and he has meant so much for my personal and professional life. Max's ideas help guide my work regarding how we carry trauma that comes into our school community, as well as how live out what is right in a public school setting to do whatever is possible for anyone who walks in our doors.

  • As a teacher, I felt seen and that my story was not only valued but important. By welcoming and accepting me, it opened me up to be vulnerable and lead in places I would not have been comfortable before.

  • I remember Mr. Weinberg always had a smile on his face and greeted everyone by name. He would always make sure all kids and family felt they mattered. Any concerns voiced would be addressed. He is all about inclusiveness and is an attentive listener. He would also follow-up and even rode the bus with the kids if needed. Mr. Weinberg is a front of the line leader!

  • I have worked with Max in his capacity as a school principal and as a fellow community member and parent. Max brings a restorative, inclusive and deeply relational lived philosophy to all he does. Working with Max, learning with Max is powerful and transformational. He is capable of both deep empathy, of truly being present, while also bringing a larger perspective and context to each encounter. I am grateful for his generosity in offering his guidance and experience to our children and to our whole community.

Speaking Engagements

My Research Book

Purchase a signed copy of the research on my website and get a free sticker! (Also available on Amazon.)

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