As educators, building trust with our students is not just important—it’s essential. Trust is the foundation of a thriving learning environment, and without it, students may struggle to reach their full potential. Cathy Tooley, CEO of Tools for Success, who served as a high school teacher for 30 years and spent 10 years as an administrator before founding Tools for Success, shares this critical insight and adage you’ve likely heard: “Nobody cares what you know until they know that you care.” When students know they are cared for and can trust their teacher, they will go above and beyond, tackling challenges they would otherwise shy away from.
So, how do we build that trust in the classroom? In a recent video on the Tools for Success YouTube Channel, Cathy shares three simple yet powerful strategies for creating an environment of trust that empowers students to succeed.
1. Care About Your Students Beyond the Classroom
Students are more than just learners—they’re individuals with passions, struggles, and lives outside of the classroom. Show them that you care by taking an interest in their lives beyond academics. If they play sports, attend their games. If they’re involved in extracurricular activities like karate or music, ask them about it. If they’re going through a difficult time at home, offer them a listening ear. By demonstrating genuine care, students feel seen and valued, and this connection forms the foundation for trust.
2. Push Them to Achieve More
It’s natural to want to protect students from discomfort, but sometimes growth happens when they’re pushed beyond their comfort zones. As Cathy points out, the teachers who made the biggest impact in her life were the ones who pushed her to go further than she thought possible. Believe in your students’ potential, and don’t be afraid to challenge them. When students know you care and trust your guidance, they’ll be willing to tackle more difficult tasks and grow from the experience.
3. Hold Them Accountable
Consistency is key when it comes to building trust. Students need to know that your word holds weight. If you establish rules or expectations—whether it’s not talking during a specific time or being seated by a certain moment—be consistent in upholding them. Students quickly learn to look for loopholes, so if you waver on enforcing a rule, they may begin to question your authority. Consistency demonstrates that you’re dependable, and in turn, it strengthens their trust in you.
By implementing these three strategies, you can foster a relationship of trust in your classroom that empowers students to stretch themselves and reach new heights. Trust is the gateway to engagement, motivation, and success, and once you establish it, your classroom will be unstoppable.
Let’s Learn from Each Other!
At Tools for Success, we believe that creating trust is a journey, and we’re all in this together. We’d love to hear your best practices and tips for building trust with your students. How do you create an environment where students feel safe, cared for, and inspired to learn?
Share your insights in the comments below, and don’t forget to visit Tools for Success YouTube and watch the full video from Cathy Tooley for more ideas and inspiration: Watch Now.
Together, we can create classrooms where students thrive!