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By David BielikAs the school year winds down, it's easy for energy, and expectations, to taper off. But keeping students (and teachers) engaged has a significant ripple effect. Students that are engaged all the way up until the last day of school will not only receive the benefits this year, but will also start the new year stronger in the fall. What’s more, students that report being engaged in school are 4 times as likely (61% vs 15%) to strongly agree that they have a great future ahead of them (Gallup & Walton Family Foundation Survey - 2024). In short: the way we end this school year can profoundly shape how students begin the next one and beyond. For administrators, this is a critical window to resist the “countdown,” and lead more intentionally, helping teachers foster closure, celebrate growth, and maintain momentum through the finish line.Promote Purposeful Closure, Not Just Countdown CultureIt’s normal for students (and staff) to count the days until summer. But if the end of the year becomes only about escape, we lose an opportunity for meaningful closure. Instead of pushing back against the countdown, administrators can help redirect that energy toward purpose: What are we leaving behind? What are we carrying forward?You can support purposeful closure by:Framing final projects as a way to synthesize and celebrate learning.Encouraging teachers to facilitate closure activities like time capsules, letters to future selves, or classroom reflections.Modeling this approach in your own communications, emphasize “finishing strong” rather than just “being done.”Highlight and Celebrate Student GrowthAt this point in the year, it’s easy for students to forget just how far they’ve come. And with academic pressures still present, many students focus on what they didn’t do, rather than what they achieved. Administrators play a key role in shifting this narrative. By making growth visible and worth celebrating, we boost student confidence and motivation.Consider:Encouraging teachers to host informal showcases or “gallery walks” of student work.Spotlighting student progress in newsletters, announcements, or social media.Recognizing growth beyond academics, such as collaboration, resilience, or leadership.Help Teachers Shift from Survival to ReflectionBy May, many teachers are simply trying to make it through the day. The pressure of testing, grading, and classroom management can push reflection and closure to the back burner. Helping teachers pivot from survival mode to reflection mode starts with clear support and resources.Support your staff by:Sharing end-of-year reflection prompts that connect academic content with personal growth.Encouraging PLCs or staff meetings to include time for co-planning reflection activities.Publicly validating that reflection and closure are legitimate, impactful teaching strategies.Recommit to Relationships, They Still Matter!With emotions running high and routines fraying, relationships can get overlooked. Yet, it’s precisely in these final weeks that strong connections matter most. For some students, this may be the last time they feel truly seen and supported in a school environment for months. Administrators can help teachers lean back into relationships with compassion and presence.To reinforce relationships:Ask teachers to reflect on which students might need extra connection before the year ends.Support informal class activities that foster community and fun.Be visible in classrooms and hallways, not as a monitor, but as a connector and encourager.The end of the school year is more than just a finish line, it’s a moment of transition and opportunity. When administrators help staff stay grounded in purpose, presence, and reflection, students carry forward a sense of accomplishment and belonging that will usher in a confident start to the next school year. The DMC Learning Success Team has over 30 years of combined experience in education, teaching in K-12 settings, and supporting learning success in college/university settings. Drawing from these experiences, DMC is committed to providing resources and tools related to our current work, which involves helping educational partners improve their culture through intentional and scalable solutions.

Written by David BielikAs the days grow longer and the weather warms, something else starts to rise, student disengagement. Students are 34% more likely to check out academically in the spring, and for historically marginalized groups, that number soars past 60%. You’ve seen it before: motivation fades, participation drops, and some students stop showing up altogether. When that happens, the countless hours, energy, and resources invested in their education risk going to waste. But the stakes are bigger than just missed assignments. When students disconnect before graduation, entire communities feel the ripple effect. The question isn’t just why this happens, but more importantly, how we can intervene before it’s too late.The Power of Teacher-Student RelationshipsResearch by Robert Pianta and colleagues underscores the powerful role that strong teacher-student relationships play in student success. When students feel supported by their teachers, they are more engaged, achieve higher grades, and perform better on tests. Having even one caring, encouraging teacher significantly reduces the likelihood of dropping out, while schools that prioritize trust and connection see higher retention rates and lower absenteeism. These relationships are especially impactful when established early, as they set the foundation for long-term academic engagement. Additionally, a positive classroom environment, one that fosters emotional support, constructive feedback, and mutual respect, creates a safe space for students to participate, take risks, and stay committed to their education.Turning Insights into Action: Administrators and TeachersAs an administrator, you juggle countless moving parts. Between managing policies, supporting teachers, and addressing student needs, it can be difficult to track every factor influencing student engagement. But understanding all these moving parts is essential because without that insight, it’s nearly impossible to tailor your approach and implement effective strategies.So, what can you do to ensure students stay engaged on their path to graduation?Professional Development for Teachers: Effective student engagement starts with strong teacher-student relationships, but building those relationships requires intentional effort and the right skills. Professional development should go beyond curriculum training to include trust-building, active listening, and culturally responsive teaching, but many programs lack time for practice, leaving tools and strategies unused. Educators need workshops and coaching that not only introduce concepts but also provide hands-on practice to ensure real classroom impact.Mentorship Programs: Having a trusted adult in school can make a world of difference for students who struggle with motivation or belonging. A structured mentorship program pairs students with advisors, teachers, or staff members who check in regularly, provide guidance, and help students set academic and personal goals. These relationships give students a consistent support system, ensuring they always have someone to turn to for encouragement and accountability.Collaborative Learning Models: Collaborative learning models provide opportunities for teachers to build stronger connections with students through interactive and engaging instruction. Strategies like project-based learning encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and real-world applications, allowing teachers to work closely with students in a more personalized way. Co-teaching and cross-grade collaboration further enhance these connections by bringing multiple educators together, offering diverse perspectives, and ensuring students receive more individualized support within a shared learning environment.As a classroom teacher, you manage more than just lessons and grades, you’re constantly balancing instruction, student behavior, emotional well-being, and classroom dynamics. With so many factors at play, it can be challenging to pinpoint exactly why some students disengage while others thrive, but being mindful of your teaching practices, how you interact with students, and the classroom environment you create are key to increasing student engagement. What can you do to help students stay motivated and persevere through challenges?Listen to Student Voices: Understanding what truly impacts students starts with actively seeking their input. Regularly surveying and interviewing students allows educators to learn about their experiences, challenges, and motivations. Create opportunities for students to share their thoughts through open discussions, anonymous feedback forms, or one-on-one check-ins. More importantly, use what you learn to shape your approach: adjust teaching strategies, offer support based on their needs, and show students that their voices matter. When students see that their feedback leads to real changes, they are more likely to trust their teachers, stay engaged, and view the classroom as a space where they are heard and valued.Build Meaningful Connections: Students are more likely to engage and succeed when they feel that their teachers genuinely care about them, not just as learners, but as individuals. Take time to learn about your students’ interests, aspirations, and challenges. Ask about their hobbies, acknowledge their achievements (both in and out of school), and show empathy when they struggle. Small moments of connection, like remembering a student’s favorite pastime or checking in on how their soccer game went, build trust and create a classroom culture where students feel seen and valued. Provide Consistent Encouragement: A few words of encouragement can make a lasting impact on a student’s confidence and motivation. Many students struggle with self-doubt, and a simple “I believe in you!” or “You’ve got this!” can shift their mindset. Recognize effort, not just results, by praising perseverance and growth. Celebrate small victories, like improvement on an assignment or participation in class discussion. Encouragement should be specific and meaningful, rather than a generic “good job,” try highlighting what a student did well, such as “I really appreciate the way you explained your reasoning on that math problem.” When students feel supported and believed in, they are more likely to stay engaged and push through challenges.Create a Safe Learning Environment: Students thrive in classrooms where they feel safe, both emotionally and academically. A safe learning environment means students are comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and expressing their thoughts without fear of embarrassment or judgment. Establish clear expectations for respect and kindness, and model those behaviors in your interactions. Encourage inclusive discussions, address conflicts constructively, and make sure every student’s voice is heard. When students trust that their teacher respects them and their classmates support them, they become more engaged, take greater academic risks, and feel a stronger connection to their learning experience.An Innovative Solution: MirrorIMAt Deo Mwano Consultancy, we recognize that tracking student engagement and relationships at scale is a major challenge. That’s why we’ve developed MirrorIM, a tool designed to help schools identify and address disengagement before students reach the point of giving up. MirrorIM provides actionable insights, helping administrators and educators understand which students need additional support and what strategies are most effective in keeping them engaged. By leveraging real-time data, schools can create stronger connections and improve student outcomes.Student engagement isn’t just about academic success, it’s about giving every student the opportunity to reach their full potential. As an administrator or educator, you have the power to make a lasting impact by fostering strong relationships and implementing strategies that keep students connected to their education. The challenge is real, but so is the opportunity. By prioritizing relationships, tailoring your approach, and utilizing tools like MirrorIM, you can ensure that no student falls through the cracks. The DMC Learning Success Team has over 30 years of combined experience in education, teaching in K-12 settings, and supporting learning success in college/university settings. Drawing from these experiences, DMC is committed to providing resources and tools related to our current work, which involves helping educational partners improve their culture through intentional and scalable solutions.

Written by David BielikWhen I first began my teaching career, a mentor shared a piece of advice his own mentor had passed down to him. He told me, “David, students won’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” This principle holds true not only in individual teacher-student interactions but also at the school-wide and district-wide levels. At its core, building relationships with students goes beyond just supporting their emotional health, it’s about fulfilling a fundamental human need for connection and belonging. When students feel connected to their school and the adults in their lives, they are more likely to engage in learning, take risks, and persist through challenges.Innovative Solutions to Foster RelationshipsTo promote relationship building, schools can start with the teachers and staff within their own buildings. Professional development programs for educators are essential in helping teachers foster these important relationships. Teachers are the adults students see every day, and they have the greatest opportunity to make an impact on their lives. Training staff on how to build authentic, supportive relationships is critical for creating an environment where all students feel valued and understood.By building partnerships with local businesses, civic leaders, and community organizations, schools can extend their reach and offer students more opportunities to engage with their community at large. These relationships help students see the broader context for their education and build a network of support that extends beyond the classroom, giving them a sense of purpose and direction.Technology, when used meaningfully, can help students create meaningful relationships (well beyond their immediate community) that were once limited by geography or socioeconomic status. Virtual mentorship programs, for instance, can connect students with industry professionals, offering guidance and support that may not have been accessible in their local community. These connections can have a profound impact on both their academic and social outcomes.The Impact of Building Strong Student RelationshipsAt Deo Mwano Consultancy (DMC), we have seen time and time again that strengthening student relationships in their schools and with their communities is key to improving the overall student experience. By focusing on the development of meaningful and lasting relationships, we empower students to become dynamic, engaged members of their school communities and, ultimately, of their broader civic communities. This not only creates stronger, more resilient students but also contributes to the development of stronger, more connected communities. The DMC Learning Success Team has over 30 years of combined experience in education, teaching in K-12 settings, and supporting learning success in college/university settings. Drawing from these experiences, DMC is committed to providing resources and tools related to our current work, which involves helping educational partners improve their culture through intentional and scalable solutions.

Written by David BielikIn the ever-evolving landscape of education, one principle remains timeless: trust is the cornerstone of meaningful relationships. For students, trust isn’t just about predictability; it’s about building the confidence and comfortability they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. When educators prioritize trust, they unlock a powerful pathway to student success.Why Trust MattersTrust is more than a feel-good concept; it’s a measurable factor in student achievement. Research consistently shows that when students trust their teachers, they are more likely to engage in learning, take academic risks, and persevere through challenges (e.g Amerstorfer and Freiin von Münster-Kistner). Trust creates a supportive environment where students feel valued and understood, fostering a sense of belonging that is critical for their overall development.For marginalized students, the stakes are even higher. These students often face systemic barriers that can erode their confidence and sense of worth. By intentionally building trust, educators can counteract these challenges and create equitable opportunities for all learners.Innovative Strategies to Build TrustBuilding trust requires intentionality and innovation. Here are actionable strategies to help educators strengthen their relationships with students:1. Lead with Authenticity - Students can sense when adults are genuine. Share appropriate personal stories, admit when you don’t have all the answers, and show vulnerability. Authenticity fosters mutual respect and encourages students to be their true selves.2. Create a Culture of ConsistencyConsistency builds predictability, which is essential for trust. Set clear expectations, follow through on promises, and maintain a steady demeanor, even during challenging situations. Students need to know they can rely on you.3. Incorporate Student VoiceEmpower students by involving them in decision-making processes. Whether it’s co-creating classroom rules or providing input on projects, giving students a voice shows that their opinions matter.4. Emphasize StrengthsCelebrate students’ achievements and unique talents. A strengths-based approach shifts the focus from deficits to possibilities, boosting students’ confidence and motivation.5. Integrate Interpersonal SkillsBy helping students develop self-awareness, empathy, and communication skills through daily routines, educators can create a compassionate classroom climate where trust naturally flourishes.The Ripple Effect of TrustWhen students trust their educators, the benefits extend far beyond the classroom. Trust builds confidence, enabling students to:Take Academic Risks: Students who trust their teachers are more willing to ask questions, share ideas, and tackle challenging tasks without fear of judgment.Develop Resilience: A trusting relationship provides the emotional safety net students need to recover from setbacks and persist through difficulties.Strengthen Interpersonal Skills: Trusting relationships model healthy communication and collaboration, skills that are vital for success in life.By prioritizing trust, educators can not only improve school climate and culture but also empower students to reach their full potential. It’s a simple yet profound principle: when we invest in trust, we invest in success.How will you build trust in your classroom or school community today? Reflect on your practices, try out new strategies, and share your successes. Together, we can create a future where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to excel. The DMC Learning Success Team has over 30 years of combined experience in education, teaching in K-12 settings, and supporting learning success in college/university settings. Drawing from these experiences, DMC is committed to providing resources and tools related to our current work, which involves helping educational partners improve their culture through intentional and scalable solutions.

Written By David BielikImagine walking into a classroom where every student, regardless of their background or perceived ability, is not just seen as capable of learning but is celebrated for the unique contributions they bring to the table. Now picture a different scene—students seated in separate groups based on labels like “advanced” or “remedial,” their potential predefined by terms that dictate not only how they’re taught but also how they see themselves. These contrasting realities are more than pedagogical choices; they reflect the heart of a broader issue. As educators, administrators, and school communities, are we inadvertently perpetuating inequities in learning environments by using labels that limit instead of empower?  Labels such as "gifted," "below basic," or "remedial" can create fixed mindsets for both students and educators. Students internalize these terms, believing they define their intelligence or worth, while teachers may unconsciously adjust expectations based on these labels, limiting opportunities for growth. For historically marginalized communities, these labels often reinforce systemic inequities, as implicit biases and resource disparities lead to disproportionate labeling and tracking.  When students are categorized by ability, it undermines their sense of identity as capable learners. Instead of seeing challenges as opportunities for growth, students labeled as "low-performing" may disengage, while those labeled "advanced" may feel undue pressure to maintain their status. These dynamics erode the inclusive, learner-centered environments that schools should strive to create.  At Deo Mwano Consultancy (DMC), we believe education systems must move beyond ability labels and embrace practices that affirm every student’s identity and potential. Here are actionable solutions to help you leave ability labels behind in order to focus on student development and growth.  1. Shift to Asset-Based Language and PracticesReplace ability focused terms like “remedial”, “low-performing”, or “advanced” (as well as ability ranked designations like Geometry A-level, B-level, C-level)  with growth-oriented language that emphasizes potential and effort.  Train teachers and staff to recognize and value the diverse strengths students bring to the classroom, integrating these into instruction.  Create a culture where challenges are reframed as learning opportunities, reinforcing the idea that all students can excel when given the right support.  2. Implement Flexible, Inclusive GroupingReplace rigid tracking systems with flexible grouping practices that allow students to collaborate and learn from peers with diverse skill sets.  Use dynamic assessment methods that measure progress over time rather than assigning fixed labels based on standardized tests.  Encourage peer-to-peer mentoring, fostering collaboration and mutual growth rather than competition.  3. Focus on Personalized, Learner-Centered ApproachesAdopt instructional strategies that are tailored to each learner's needs, interests, and experiences. This approach respects individual identities and provides equitable access to high-quality learning.  Use project-based learning and interdisciplinary approaches to engage students in meaningful, real-world problems that highlight their strengths and creativity.  Integrate social and emotional learning (SEL) to help students develop self-awareness, resilience, and a growth mindset.  4. Promote Equity Through Teacher Training and ResourcesProvide professional development that addresses implicit bias, equity, and culturally responsive teaching.  Equip educators with the tools to design lessons that are both rigorous and accessible, ensuring all students can engage with challenging content.  Advocate for equitable resource allocation to schools serving marginalized communities, addressing systemic disparities that limit opportunities.  5. Empower Students as Co-Creators of Their Learning Involve students in setting learning goals and reflecting on their progress, fostering agency and ownership of their education.  Celebrate diverse pathways to success, recognizing achievements that go beyond traditional academic metrics.  Create spaces where students can share their experiences and insights, shaping a curriculum that reflects their realities and aspirations.  The practice of ability labeling is fundamentally at odds with the goal of providing rigorous, affirming, and equitable education for all. By dismantling these labels and embracing inclusive, learner-centered practices, we can transform schools into spaces where every student thrives. At DMC, we are committed to helping schools reimagine their approaches to teaching and learning, fostering environments that celebrate diversity, promote equity, and support the success of all learners. Together, let’s break the barriers imposed by ability labels and create a future where every student’s potential is limitless. The DMC Learning Success Team has over 30 years of combined experience in education, teaching in K-12 settings, and supporting learning success in college/university settings. Drawing from these experiences, DMC is committed to providing resources and tools related to our current work, which involves helping educational partners improve their culture through intentional and scalable solutions.