In my first semester of teaching as a young man in 1976, I wanted to create a relationship with my students and spent time on the playground, eating in the lunchroom and having fun with the children. Ken Olin, principal, stated his appreciation; yet, gave me a piece of advice I have since shared. Mike, “The students have a lot of friends, they need and want a teacher.” Then, in 2002, I was serving as the principal of a high school, South Bend Clay, when a young lady approached me in the hall way and said, “You are the best principal I have ever had.” I responded, “Why?” She replied, “Because you know my name.”

I am a strong believer in creating a school environment where all students learn at a high level. I have been part of schools as the principal when the staff and community have been recognized as the top ten percent of schools in the state at two separate buildings and corporations. I was the principal at an urban elementary school that went from being ranked 21 of 23 schools to 5 of 23 in one school year. And, I was fortunate to be the superintendent of a corporation that was picked as “Best of the Best” in Indiana. I was on the coaching staffs of a state championship team and groups that won eight consecutive conference championships. Academics are the priority and winning in all things is the goal for the benefit of the team. Relationships are a key to this success.

Willard Daggett shares about rigor, relevance, and relationships are the three “R’s” that create success. We must have expectations with rigor that takes the participants to a higher level. The activities presented and practiced by students needs to be relevant to the subject and the end goal. However, without a relationship, the students are not interested in the subject and surely will not accept the rigor necessary to achieve at the championship level. I have found educators and coaches with wonderful knowledge and technical skills that refuse to acknowledge the importance of relationships when establishing their classrooms and teams. They do not achieve championships and do not enjoy the fruits of knowing their students as individuals.

Our society is changing and the challenge in schools and classrooms continues to increase. Teachers welcome the opportunity to teach and encourage students to achieve at a high level. Staffs are asking for assistance in creating an orderly environment and support in allowing them to teach. Defining the expected outcomes, alignment, allowing the classroom to progress by minimizing disruptions, time on task, and then having a proven, researched system of classroom organization and presenting of materials make a huge difference. Great teachers continue to grow and improve each year in their professions. I look forward to being part of the process and discussion to have student growth and allowing teachers to enjoy the world’s greatest profession.