A while back, I posted a stat from Gallup: 53% of students are actively disengaged.
I said the problem was that we aren't creating a "can't miss" campus experience.
And let me tell you... teachers lost their minds.
The comments flooded in:
"I am not a clown."
"I don't run a circus."
"I am not here to entertain."
The moral: We have confused engagement with entertainment.
You don't need to wear a red nose or do a song and dance to get students to care. That’s exhausting (and frankly, it’s not your job).
What students actually crave isn't a show. It's connection.
Now, how does this apply to your school?
My guest today, Dr. Anne Paonessa, argues that connection is the "foundation of learning itself".
When she implemented the 4 Domains of Connection (Self, Others, Learning, Community), she didn't turn her class into a circus.
She just made the work matter.
So, if you’re tired of competing with TikTok for attention ...
Then you need to listen to this episode. We break down exactly how to swap "entertainment" for authentic connection strategies that actually reduce burnout.
Keep Making a Ruckus,
Danny
PS: Anne breaks down a "Connections to Self" strategy that helps every student see themselves as a superhero (without you having to wear a cape).
TODAY’S RUCKUSCAST IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
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