The Connection Gap: A Reflective Guide to Authentic Relationships with Every Student

In this episode of The Community Effect Podcast, we’re getting real about the connection gaps in our classrooms. You’ve built relationships with your students—but are they as strong and intentional as they need to be? Students feel the depth of their connection with us, and when that bond is weak, they act out, shut down, or disengage. Some relationships happen naturally, while others require strategic effort, reflection, and intentionality. Today, we’re diving into how to strengthen and repair relationships, ensuring that every student—not just the easy-to-connect-with ones—feels seen, valued, and supported. I’ll share my own journey of learning that relationships don’t just “happen”—they have to be built with purpose. Plus, I’ll give you real, actionable strategies you can use this week to audit your student relationships and start closing the connection gap. Don’t forget to hit subscribe so you never miss an episode, and share this with a fellow educator who needs to hear it. Tag me on Instagram @crobingotkids or email me at: [e-mail] and let me know which strategy you’re using to strengthen relationships in your classroom! Because when we build strong, authentic connections—everything in the classroom changes. Let’s get to work!