Some students thrive with clear rules and consistent reinforcement, while others need an extra layer of support to stay on track. When reminders and classroom routines aren’t enough, it can feel like you’re constantly repeating yourself with little change. If you find yourself constantly reminding the same students about expectations or struggling with inconsistent follow-through, a behavior contract might be the missing piece.

You’ve put in the work. Your rules and expectations are clear, your routines and procedures are consistent, and your classwide reinforcement system is running smoothly. You’re using positive reinforcement, consistent corrective responses to problem behaviors, and proactive strategies to create a structured and supportive environment.

But even with all that in place, there are still a few students who just aren’t responding. You’re redirecting the same behaviors over and over.

The first few weeks at school after breaks can bring a lot of energy—and sometimes, that energy spills over into increased behavior challenges. Maybe the novelty of being back has worn off and students are testing boundaries again. Don’t stress—it’s totally normal.

A new year often brings a sense of promise—a fresh start—and the temptation to reinvent everything, especially in the classroom. But let’s be real: constant reinvention can be overwhelming. What if, instead, we embraced consistency as the foundation of a positive classroom culture?