They are far more likely to follow rules they helped write. It moves the dynamic from "Me vs. Them" to "Us." 5. The "Low-Stakes" Connection
Start Day One by explicitly stating that last year’s records don't define this year’s potential. 1 : The Misfit Class's New Term
For a misfit, knowing that one adult "sees" them can be the difference between showing up and dropping out. Summary for the Term They are far more likely to follow rules they helped write
Spend the first week building a "Class Constitution" together. Ask them: What does respect look like here? What happens when someone is having a bad day? The "Low-Stakes" Connection Start Day One by explicitly
Find out one non-academic interest for every student (gaming, skating, obscure anime, etc.) and check in on it weekly.
Relationships are built in the margins—the five minutes before class starts or the walk to the cafeteria.