You've Gotta Connect: Building Relationships That Lead to Engaged Students, Productive Classrooms, and Higher Achievement

Demonstrates how to build a strong student-teacher connection in the classroom.

A secure and trusting relationship between teacher and students is at the heart of positive discipline and a safe, productive classroom. The positive effects of building teacher-student relationships impact all aspects of classroom life. Students come to class and like to be there, they are more engaged in learning, they retain more of what they learn, and their creativity is unleashed. There are fewer behavior issues, lower dropout rates, and more harmony between class members. With humor, practical action steps for the teacher, and a few wacky stories, Jim Sturtevant shows all educators how to connect with students and operate a classroom in ways that show acceptance, breed mutual respect, handle and reduce conflict, build self-esteem, support students in trouble, and add peace and enjoyment.

James Alan Sturtevant has been a high school economics teacher for 30 years. He lives in Galena, Ohio.