How to Engage Your Most Challenging Students

In this blog post, we’re diving into one of the most common challenges teachers face — classroom management. Whether you’re a new educator or a seasoned assistant principal, managing student behavior effectively takes a balance of structure, empathy, and consistency.

Traditional discipline methods — referrals, ISS, suspensions — might handle immediate issues, but they rarely address the root cause of behavior problems. That’s where restorative practices come in. Instead of focusing only on punishment, restorative practices emphasize relationships, communication, and accountability.

Building Relationships in the Classroom

Every classroom has students who test limits — the “rambunctious” ones who can’t seem to sit still. The key is to channel that energy into something positive. Assigning these students meaningful classroom roles — paper passer, tech helper, clean-up captain — helps them feel seen and valued. When students are trusted with responsibility, they often rise to meet that trust.

Even the student who seems most resistant will respond when asked for help. A simple, “Hey, can you help me with something?” can turn a defiant attitude into cooperation. These small moments build connection and shift behavior patterns over time.

Restorative Leadership as an Administrator

As an assistant principal, one powerful approach is to look beyond the referral. When a student walks into the office, pull up their grades and attendance. These data points tell a bigger story than any single incident. Instead of just processing the discipline, talk about goals — improving a grade, showing up to class, or avoiding another referral.

Set a follow-up meeting and put it on both your calendars. When students see their name in your schedule, they know you care and expect accountability. In nearly every case, students return with improved grades, better attendance, and fewer discipline issues — all because someone took the time to invest in them.

Why Restorative Practices Work

These methods aren’t about being lenient — they’re about being strategic. Students thrive when adults show consistency and care. Over time, restorative approaches build stronger relationships, foster self-reflection, and create classrooms where students actually want to do better.

For teachers, this means fewer daily disruptions and a more positive classroom environment. For administrators, it means fewer repeat offenders and more meaningful outcomes for students.

Ready to learn more about effective classroom management and leadership?
Visit kathleenjasper.com for teacher resources, leadership prep, and free webinars designed to help you succeed in education.

🎥 Watch the full video for real-world examples and strategies! 🎥