Yes! The strategies are appropriate for elementary and secondary settings, and there are scenarios and examples from different grade levels. (The course does not cover early childhood, though--If you’re interested in a course for that level, please let us know!)

Yes, teachers can always learn more by working together! Each module contains some brief snippets of text-based instruction, videos, reflections, activities (Do Now Challenges). Teachers could read the instructional portions on their own (or a facilitator can read them out loud) and then a facilitator could project the videos on a screen. And then in large or small groups, teachers could work on the reflection questions together. Teachers could also complete the “Do Now” challenges with a mentor.

No, the course is designed for busy teachers and can be completed in small portions - even just five minutes a day or ten minutes a week. With six months' access to the content, participants can learn at their own pace and revisit key topics as needed. The course can also support ongoing discussions with mentors or colleagues, encouraging collaborative learning over time.

For example, teachers could use the course:

• Across PD days
• During planning periods
• In 1:1 sessions with their mentor
• By reflecting throughout the week for the next PD day group share
• During summer teacher training programs
• And more!

We completely understand. For schools looking for a reading-based approach, we recommend Your First Year and Classroom Management from the Ground Up. Both provide practical, evidence-based strategies that teachers can apply immediately.

That said, if your goal is lasting behaviour change and consistent practice across your teaching team, a structured course can provide greater accountability, reflection, and application than reading alone. Many schools find that combining the books with the course creates the strongest professional development experience.

Absolutely! It gives pre- and in-service teachers practical content on how to lay the foundations for effective classroom management, so they can be set up for success once they begin their careers.

The course can help all teachers! According to a recent Education Week article, classroom management challenges are a leading cause of teacher burnout. Experienced teachers will gain some new tips and tricks for their toolbox, and might appreciate the strategies on tweaking their existing classroom management systems. The strategies on parent communication are also especially useful for teachers of all levels of experience.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a digital badge/Certificate of Completion from Routledge Academy. This certificate can be used to document continuing professional development education requirements in many districts and states.

The course is delivered on-demand through Routledge Academy's online platform. Participants can access it via computer, tablet, or mobile device with an internet connection. The flexible format allows teachers to study at their convenience and around their busy schedules.

The course includes five comprehensive modules:

• Module 1: Implementing a Solid Foundation (rules, procedures, and consequences)
• Module 2: Building Relationships and Expectations
• Module 3: Handling Student Behavior
• Module 4: Increasing Motivation and Engagement
• Module 5: Communicating with Parents

Each module is approximately one hour of learning and includes videos from Todd Whitaker, case studies, knowledge checks, and valuable practical resources.

The course is packed with immediately applicable resources including:

• Downloadable checklists and templates
• Handouts for devising procedures and rules
• Tip sheets on building relationships and using praise effectively
• Lesson plan templates
• Printable notes and certificate templates for positive parent communication
• Reflection worksheets and "Do Now" challenges

Dr. Todd Whitaker is a research professor at the University of Missouri and one of the nation's leading authorities on staff motivation, teacher leadership, and principal effectiveness. He has written over 60 books, including the bestseller "What Great Teachers Do Differently." Prior to higher education, he was a mathematics teacher, basketball coach, and served as a principal at middle school, junior high, and high school levels.

He is a highly sought-after speaker who has presented to hundreds of thousands of educators worldwide.

Module 5 specifically focuses on effective parent communication strategies, including:

• Planning parent/caregiver involvement opportunities throughout the year
• Increasing positive communications with parents
• Thoughtfully delivering difficult news about grades and behavior
• Responding to parents who question consequences
• De-escalating situations with belligerent or rude parents
• Scripts for various parent communication scenarios

Yes! The course is ideal for school leaders looking to provide consistent, high-quality professional development. It can be used for:

• New teacher induction programs
• Ongoing professional development for all staff
• Mentoring programs paired with veteran teachers
• Small group professional learning communities
• District-wide initiatives on classroom management

This course combines Dr. Whitaker's decades of research and practical experience with real-world scenarios and case studies. It focuses on prevention rather than punishment, building relationships, and creating positive learning environments. The on-demand format with downloadable resources means teachers can immediately apply strategies in their classrooms and revisit content as needed throughout the school year.

Yes, the course includes online quizzes and knowledge checks throughout each module to help participants assess their understanding and retention of key concepts. These assessments ensure that teachers are grasping the material and can apply it effectively in their classrooms.

The course is designed to be self-guided with clear instructions and comprehensive materials, but support from our learner experience team is available when needed.

For information about customization options, bulk pricing, or district-wide implementation, please contact Sarah.HaynesDietzen@taylorandfrancis.com to discuss your specific needs and explore available options.