If not reminded, and reminded often, your students will naturally slip into believing that school is just something they’re supposed to do. They never consider that school doesn’t need them, individually anyway, but that they need school. So many students approach their education as … Read more
One of the keys to handling difficult students is to hold them accountable for every rule violation, from the first day of school onward. Because if you don’t, you’ll be at their mercy. You’ll have to appease them, lower your standards, and give in … Read more
One of the great things about teaching is that every year is a fresh start. Every year allows you to wipe the slate clean, reinvent yourself, and become a better, more effective teacher. Summer provides an opportunity to push the reset button, to reflect … Read more
Teachers who struggle with classroom management tend to head into the start of every school year with a wait and see approach. Sure, they may have an idea of how they want to manage their classroom. They may have strategies they’ve leaned on in … Read more
Teachers who struggle with classroom management tend to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. They’re burdened with the need to walk, talk, correct, cajole, and remind their students through every this and every that. They’re saddled with having to remain on … Read more
It’s common for teachers to misunderstand the term “building relationships.” They hear of the importance of creating connections with students—particularly difficult students—and assume it means they need to spend more time with them individually. They assume it means they need to try and get … Read more
Contrary to what many believe, the role of principal doesn’t include directly influencing behavior in your classroom. It shouldn’t, anyway. Because the more personally involved your principal is, the harder it will be to manage your class. It seems counterintuitive. It seems like the … Read more
Difficult students need your leadership. They need your consistency. They need your honesty, your forgiveness, and your unwavering belief in them. They need your fixed boundaries, your steady, predictable presence, your faithful accountability, and your commitment to doing what is right by them and … Read more