Start Small, Stay Consistent: Building Trust Through Tier 1 Routines

This month, Jeff, one of Emergent Tree’s District Coaches, is talking about the big impact of small routines.
 
He shares the story of a PE coach who faithfully greeted and checked in with his students every day. It seemed simple—until one student, after losing his dog, sought out that coach as the adult he trusted most. That daily routine wasn’t just about behavior—it built connection, trust, and safety.
 
Jeff also points to fun celebrations like feedback boards (and one very tattoo-covered teacher!) as proof that consistency plus creativity can shift classroom culture. Teachers appreciated not just the fun, but the clear structure and shared language, anchored in core values like safe, respectful, and responsible.
 
The bottom line?

Don’t overcomplicate it. Pick one routine, keep it simple, stick with it, and watch the change happen.

What’s one daily routine you could start (or reinforce) to build consistency and trust with students? How do your core values show up in daily classroom interactions? What’s a creative way you can celebrate positive behavior that both students and staff would enjoy?
 
Want more real-world strategies like this each month?
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