ABSTRACT
Conversations about effective schooling increasingly converge upon three overarching themes-rigor, relevance, and relationships (Carter & Draper, 2010; McNulty & Quaglia, 2007). Within the framework of the “new” three Rs, every student should receive the supports and encouragement needed to access the wide range of rigorous learning opportunities available within their school. Such learning opportunities should address content that has immediate and long-term relevance to students’ lives, with supports being tailored to meet individualized needs. Meaningful relationships with peers and adults should comprise both an avenue through which learning is supported and an outcome of high-quality educational experiences. Schools addressing these three elements well are presumed to provide better contexts for all students to thrive, both academically and socially.
