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
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
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
It’s easy to get pulled into an argument. Example: You notice a student pushing a classmate during a transition. It’s a clear violation of your classroom management plan, so you move in and enforce a consequence. Upon hearing the news, however, the student’s eyes … Read more
Much of the stress teachers feel today comes from sources outside of the classroom. New curriculum, policies, and programs, tweaks and changes to this and that, and the near-constant call for flexibility—all zooming at you at an alarming rate—can feel like an ever-present dark … Read more
Most teachers have a less-than positive relationship with difficult students—although it isn’t always evident to those around them. Indeed, the teacher may not yell, scold, or berate them in front of their classmates, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t resentment churning under the surface. … Read more
Homework can be particularly frustrating because it takes place outside of your presence. Once you send your students off for the day, they’re on their own—with only the faintest echo of your voice imploring them to get it done. Furthermore, they may have soccer … Read more