Student Connection Strategies: Building Trust and Inclusivity from Day One

Guest Post: Melissa-Ann Pero

Redesigning the First Day of School with Student Connection Strategies

Discover how high school teacher Melissa-Ann Pero transformed her back-to-school routine using a student-centered questionnaire that builds trust, promotes inclusivity, and strengthens classroom relationships.

Last spring, I attended a Gay-Straight Alliance Student Summit, and one session left a lasting impression. A presenter emphasized the importance of knowing personal details about students, not just academic data, but who they are as individuals. That moment inspired me to rethink my first day of school routine. I used to begin the year by sharing fun facts about myself. This time, I flipped the script and focused on learning about my students first.

Why Student Connection Strategies Matter

Creating an inclusive and supportive classroom environment starts with understanding your students. I wanted to know more than just names and grades. I wanted to discover what makes each student unique.

To do this, I turned to my Professional Learning Network (PLN), exploring hashtags, educator pages, and forums. After gathering ideas, I designed a student questionnaire that blends personal interests with academic goals an essential tool in my student connection strategies toolkit.

My Back-to-School Student Survey

Here are some of the questions I ask to build meaningful connections:

• What name do you want me to use during class? (Do you prefer a nickname?)

• Choose the pronoun you prefer

• What is your favorite candy?

• Do you have any food allergies?

• What’s the last thing you read that was over one full page long?

• What qualities do you look for in a good teacher?

• What are you passionate about?

• What are your strengths, and how can we use them for success in this class?

• What’s one thing you feel you MUST learn in this class?

• Besides passing or earning a grade, what does success in this class look like to you?

• What is your karaoke anthem?

• Complete this sentence: I want to be remembered as…

  
  

What I’ve Learned from My Students

This simple survey has opened the door to more meaningful conversations and deeper relationships. I’ve learned:

• What music my students love

• What they expect from me as a teacher

• What snacks to stock up on after Halloween

• How to make them feel seen, heard, and respected

  
  

One student wrote:

“I am genderfluid. I like any, especially he/they, and I really respect that you ask this.”

That one response confirmed that this approach was not only meaningful but also necessary.

About the Author

Melissa-Ann Pero is a high school English teacher and yearbook advisor currently pursuing her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. She’s a Google Level 1 Educator, Apple Certified Teacher, Keystone Technology Innovator, and passionate edtech enthusiast. Melissa has presented at district, regional, and state conferences across Pennsylvania.

📲 Connect with her on Twitter: @bshsmspero

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