In this episode of New Teacher Talk, we invite Keon Ruiter, a dedicated second-grade teacher with 18 years of experience at Maria Sanchez Elementary School, to share his time-tested approach to classroom management through relationship building.

Keon reveals how positive connections with students and families create the foundation for everything else that happens in the classroom. From the moment students arrive, he demonstrates how simple door greetings can set the tone for the entire day while providing valuable insights into each child's emotional state.

Discover the power of morning meetings as Keon walks us through his straightforward structure that builds classroom community and supports social-emotional learning. Learn how to create collaborative "respect agreements" with your students that cover student-to-student, student-to-teacher, teacher-to-student, and environment interactions, plus how to adapt these agreements for today's technology-rich classrooms.

Keon shares practical family engagement strategies, including the beloved "all about me bag" activity that serves as a perfect first homework assignment while helping teachers learn about their students' interests and backgrounds. He also discusses effective communication techniques for building positive relationships with families, from dismissal-time interactions to using apps for sharing good news.

The episode concludes with Keon's innovative "chance slip" system for positive reinforcement, showing how non-material rewards can motivate students while reinforcing classroom expectations.

Whether you're a new teacher looking to establish strong classroom management from day one or a veteran educator seeking fresh relationship-building strategies, this episode offers practical, proven techniques that will transform your classroom community. Keon's approach proves that when students feel safe, supported, and valued, both learning and positive behavior naturally flourish.

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