Don Parker

Nurture positive student-teacher relationships to improve student engagement, behavior, and achievement for youth at risk. Research shows that discipline problems are one of the greatest challenges in education. In Building Bridges, author Don Parker shows educators how to address this issue head-on.

Based on the combined research-affirmed works of Dr. Timothy D. Kanold and Dr. Tina H. Boogren and their 2021 title Educator Wellness, this timely institute will help focus your time, energy, routines, and actions on strategies to avoid the physical and emotional exhaustion and relational burnout that educators often face.

“Be the Driving Force is a powerful resource because it is personal, reliable, and practical,” writes educator and author William D. Parker. Principals will discover insightful guidance on building self-confidence, leading with integrity, and ensuring equity in education and culturally responsive practices.

Students do not put up walls to avoid relationships, but to see who cares enough to break the walls down. Research shows that building relationships with students increases engagement, motivation, test scores, and grade point averages while decreasing absenteeism, dropout rates, and discipline issues.