Classroom management is much like managing a bank account. Before you can ask your students to give their attention, effort, or respect, you need to make consistent deposits. These deposits come in the form of building trust, fostering relationships, and creating a positive environment through routines that students can rely on. Consistency in expectations, praise, and classroom procedures establishes a foundation where students feel secure and understood. Just like a bank account, the more you invest upfront—through routine-building and consistency—the more you can rely on your students when it’s time to make those withdrawals, whether it’s asking them to stay focused, follow instructions, or contribute to class discussions. When you nurture your classroom with these deposits, your management strategies will run more smoothly, and your students will be more willing to engage.

As teachers, we know the impact parental support has on student success. But what happens when that support is lacking? Whether due to work, personal struggles, or other challenges, some parents simply can’t be as involved as we’d like. The result? A lack of reinforcement at home, behavior issues in the classroom, and missed opportunities for partnership.

The key is to approach this with empathy and understanding. Teachers can use tools like ParentSquare to stay connected, reach out positively before discipline issues escalate, and offer flexible communication times. Encouraging students to advocate for themselves can also bridge the gap when parental involvement is limited. It's not about blaming—it’s about finding creative solutions to support students and their families, building a community that works together for success.