ABSTRACT
This chapter provides practical ways to make deeper connections with students that will pay dividends in the work ahead. Relationships in education are more than stickers in the classroom, more than high-fives at the door, and certainly more than hoodies in the halls. Research continues to prove the importance of establishing a caring community in the development of a healthy school culture, relationships, and impact on student achievement. As a leader, ensuring students are engaged is more than an annual satisfaction survey, it is deeper than the daily greeting at the door, and when done well with intention it has lasting impacts on the student, teacher, and school personnel. When modeled with students, caring leadership includes having high expectations, no excuses, and intentional ways to demonstrate that care towards students in an individualized nature.
