SIGNIFICANT 72
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Build Stronger Relationships, Transform Student Achievement

In classrooms across the globe, one truth remains constant—relationships drive learning. Research proves it, and experience confirms it. In Significant 72: Unleashing the Power of Relationships, Greg Wolcott delivers a powerful, research-backed approach to strengthening student-teacher connections and fostering an environment where ALL learners thrive.​

Why Relationships Matter

In his groundbreaking work, Visible Learning (2009), Professor John Hattie analyzed over 50,000 studies encompassing 236 million students to determine what truly impacts achievement. His research revealed that strong teacher-student relationships have an effect size of .72—equivalent to nearly two years of student growth in just one year.
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Significant 72 takes this insight from theory to practice, providing educators with actionable strategies to transform their classrooms into relationship-rich learning environments where engagement, trust, and achievement flourish.

The Book

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What Educators Will Gain from Significant 72

  • A Deep Understanding of Every Student – Learn how to uncover each child’s background, strengths, and challenges to enhance engagement and empower autonomous learning.
  • The Power to Challenge & Inspire – Discover how strong relationships help students move beyond their comfort zones and reach their full potential.
  • A Framework for Connection – Implement strategies to cultivate trust, acceptance, and meaningful interactions between students and educators.
  • Targeted Support for Those Who Need It Most – Identify students who require deeper connections and gain tools to support their academic, emotional, and social growth.
  • A Relationship-Driven Mindset – See how fostering meaningful relationships not only boosts student success but also enhances educators’ well-being.

More Than a Strategy-- A Movement

Education isn’t just about instruction—it’s about connection. Significant 72 is more than a framework; it’s a call to action for schools to prioritize relationships as the foundation of learning. With Greg Wolcott’s expertise and practical guidance, educators can create classrooms where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to achieve at the highest levels.

Because when relationships come first, learning follows.

Are you ready to transform your classroom? Explore Significant 72 today.

Question:

Are the teacher-student relationships in your classroom and school driving two years of growth in just one year?

​Try the 72-Point Challenge!

CLICK BELOW!

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Greg Wolcott on "Building Relationships in Today's Classrooms"

Interview with Andrea Samadi on the
​ Neuroscience Meets SEL podcast

7 Undeniably Important Actions to Let Students Know They Matter

At the heart of Significant 72 are seven core actions educators can take to build meaningful relationships and create an environment where every student thrives. These actions aren't just ideas but proven, research-based strategies that ensure students feel seen, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential.
  • Create Connections- Learning is inherently social, and students thrive when they feel connected.  By intentionally setting aside time to build relationships with each child, classrooms transform into communities where trust and belonging fuel engagement and learning.
  • Obsess over the Press- True growth happens when students are continually nudged outside their comfort zones- nut never alone. Educators who "obsess over the press" understand the delicate balance of challenging students while simultaneously providing the support they need to succeed.
  • Unleash Clarity- Students achieve at the highest levels when academic and behavioral expectations are clear. When teachers define success, remove ambiguity, and provide direct, transparent feedback, students gain the confidence and motivation to excel.
  • Raise the Relevancy- Learning sticks when students see its purpose.  Educators who make content meaningful by connecting it to students' lives, interests, and aspirations help fuel intrinsic motivation and deeper understanding.
  • Accelerate Achievement- Success breads success. When educators provide early wins, recognize student progress, and create a culture of achievement, students gain the confidence to persist through challenges and aim higher than they ever though possible.
  • Guarantee Support- A strong peer network is as vital as teacher support.  By fostering collaboration and teamwork, educators help students develop relationships that provide encouragement, accountability, and shared success.
  • Erase Conflict- Misbehavior and disengagement are often symptoms of disconnection.  Educators who prioritize relationships minimize power struggles, reduce disciplinary issues, and create classrooms where students feel valued, respected, and motivated to contribute.

Transform Classrooms, One Relationship at a Time

The 7 Core Actions aren’t just instructional strategies; they are a mindset—one that reshapes the student experience and ensures every learner has the support, challenge, and encouragement they need to succeed. When educators commit to these principles, classrooms become places where students don’t just learn but thrive.

A Roadmap for Educators at Every Level

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or school leader, Significant 72 provides a clear roadmap to building a relationship-driven learning environment. With practical examples, actionable strategies, and real-world insights, this book equips educators with the tools needed to create lasting change.
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Start Your Significant 72 Journey Today

The power of relationships is undeniable. When teachers commit to fostering meaningful connections, students flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. Join the Significant 72 movement and discover how prioritizing relationships can transform not only student achievement but also the joy of teaching.
Because when relationships come first, everything else follows.

Relationship Resources

Click here to access 100's of FREE ideas  and resources to begin developing stronger relationships with and between students  in your class!
"Significant 72 has been a major influence to the development of our new school.  It was a key aspect in the creation of our mission and vision.  At Boyne PS we understand the importance of beginning the year well, celebrating each month as individual classroom communities and making strong connections to students each and every day.  The concepts within Significant 72 are foundational within our School Improvement Plans and Safe Schools Plan.  Every adult in the school commits to these ideas in order to provide a safe, welcoming, caring learning environment for our students."
Peter Marshall
Principal - Boyne Public School
​Ontario, Canada
#BeSignificant!
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