One of the most successful strategies for connecting with students and developing trusting relationships is one I picked up during my first year as an associate principal from the principal who hired me. He modeled for me over and over the value and importance of following up with students a day or two after dealing with them in any type of discipline situation. After any disciplinary action, he would seek them out and ask them if they understood why he had disciplined them. He would listen to what the student had to say
