At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, whose school of education was recently ranked one of the best in the nation, future educators learn the importance of a positive learning environment.
“We definitely focus on relationship building and rapport and creating a positive learning environment,” said Kimber Wilkerson, director of teacher education at the university. “That often makes a difference for kids, whether going to school is another stressor or a place where they don’t feel connected, versus knowing that they have someone.”