In this episode of the Innovative Schools Podcast, we sit down with Larry Thompson, creator of Responsibility-Centered Discipline (RCD), to explore how educators can help students take ownership of their actions, develop self-control, and build the internal strength needed to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Learn why traditional discipline methods fall short and how shifting the focus from compliance to coaching creates lasting change.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

✔️ What Responsibility-Centered Discipline (RCD) is and why it works
✔️ Why self-control is like a muscle—and how educators can “spot” students as they grow
✔️ The difference between controlling students and coaching them
✔️ How to create “mastery moments” that build student confidence
✔️ Why external rewards can hurt long-term growth
✔️ Practical strategies for turning tough moments into teachable ones

💬 Memorable Quotes:

🗣️ “Self-control is kind of like a muscle—and you can strengthen that in a person.” 
🗣️ “We want kids to feel strong when they meet a goal, not when they oppose authority.”
🗣️ “Relationships are built through proper spotting more than through fun games.”
🗣️ “Motivation is just a measurement of your self-control.”
🗣️ “You can only lift other people’s weight so long before you get sick of it.”

🧠 Strategies You’ll Learn:

• Framing expectations as skills instead of rules
• How to “spot” students like a coach during difficult moments
• The thumbs-up/thumbs-down check-in method to build student self-awareness
• Shifting classroom culture from compliance to collaboration
• Encouraging student self-reflection and honesty
• Coaching from a place of mastery instead of control

📚 Resources & Links:

🔗 Give 'Em Five – Official RCD Website
🔗 Subscribe to the Innovative Schools Podcast for more powerful conversations!

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