Pointes and Perspective #9 Lead and They Will Follow

Let's get right into today's discussion,

#9 Lead and They Will Follow

Where we will discuss Discipline in the Classroom.

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In Pointes and Perspective #8, Mind Your Manners, I mentioned listening to Doug Bopst speak about discipline. He explained that the root of discipline is disciple which means pupil, or student. And that we should keep in mind as we lovingly discipline our students, that we are teaching, inspiring and leading them - we are Discipling.

After hearing this, I took time to check in on my teaching habits. I run a tight ship in my classroom, and utilize tough love. Was I discipling as I disciplined my students?

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  Sometimes, tough love can be harmful, for example belittling a student for failing to accomplish a step or memorize a combination. Having consequences can change behavior, yes, but belittling or criticizing is extreme and can have long lasting negative repercussions. Responding with actions that are overly harsh, authoritative, or uncaring, is disciplining, but not discipling.

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An empathetic approach is much more effective. Tough love can take a positive approach, where students learn valuable lessons in a way that is supportive and preserves the dignity of the student. This can include a healthy set of firm boundaries, common in authoritative parenting and teaching styles. Your boundaries are the limits to what you are willing to accept. Healthy boundaries should be clearly communicated, for example, only students who are seated and waiting quietly and patiently will be selected to do chasses across the floor. It is also essential to maintain these boundaries by following through. Practicing tough love will let the student deal with the consequences, such as not being selected to do the exercise. The student will learn the important lesson on their own, without being criticized, or disciplined, but rather, discipled.

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When a teacher lovingly disciplines, they have the whole class engaged, allowing students the opportunity to do their best. This creates a learning environment where students are willing to work hard and help one another. Teachers who disciple, bring out the best in students by teaching them to adhere to boundaries in an engaging and effective manner. They treat all students the same, and create equal opportunity for every student. Teachers who disciple, help students reach their full potential in class. When students are being taught, inspired and led, they respect and love their teachers, and they enthusiastically follow them.

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As I pondered my teaching habits, I realized my tight ship and my tough love was successful, because there was mutual respect and mutual love in my classroom.

Lead and they will follow.