Katy Ridnouer Books

Teaching is as much about students as it is about curriculum, a truth well understood by middle and high school teachers. Even the most dedicated educators can feel overwhelmed by the challenge of engaging distracted and defiant adolescents. Drawing from her own experience, Katy Ridnouer presents an approach to classroom management that allows teachers to spend less time managing behavior and more time inspiring students to excel. Managing with heart involves accepting teenagers as they are and recognizing their needs: a connection to the curriculum, a sense of order, and the assurance that someone cares. This book offers practical strategies for balancing care and discipline, interacting with students and parents, establishing effective classroom routines, communicating expectations, and addressing common challenges like noise, conflicts, and disrespectful behavior. It emphasizes building trust and creating an emotionally and intellectually safe environment for students. With vivid real-life examples and reflective questions, this book is ideal for faculty reading groups and any middle or high school teacher aiming to foster a positive learning community, enhance students' confidence and interpersonal skills, and rediscover the joy of teaching.