Episode Summary: Welcome to the first episode of the Innovative Schools podcast! In this episode, host Jordan sits down with Joseph Cope, a Responsibility Centered Discipline (RCD) master trainer, to discuss the challenges and rewards of working in Title 1 schools. They explore classroom management, self-control, and how educators can create a space for every student to succeed—even those who present challenges.

Joseph shares his journey from elementary to middle school education, his experiences in Title 1 schools, and the lessons he learned along the way. He provides insight into how teachers can foster intrinsic motivation, set boundaries while maintaining student dignity, and manage their own emotional well-being to prevent burnout.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The reality of working in Title 1 schools and the unique challenges students face.
• Why traditional classroom management strategies may not always work—and what to do instead.
• How to create a space for students to choose self-regulation and self-control.
• The importance of maintaining student dignity while addressing behavioral issues.
• Strategies to prevent teacher burnout and sustain a fulfilling teaching career.

Key Quotes:

• “Great teachers can create a space for students to choose to change behavior for themselves.”
• “Self-control is like a muscle—you have to use it for it to grow.”
• “Sometimes, we have to save ourselves from ourselves by protecting our heart with a level of skill.”
  
  

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about Responsibility Centered Discipline: https://www.givemfive.com/
• Interested in bringing Joseph to your school for professional development? https://www.givemfive.com/contact/

Thank you for joining us for this episode! We look forward to continuing this conversation and learning together in future episodes of the Innovative Schools podcast.