Don Barefield

33 Core Principles of Effective Teaching for K–12 Educators

Thirty Three

What works- every time, everywhere: 33 principles that transform classrooms.

What if your teachers had a proven set of principles to rely on—day in and day out? In this powerful session, Don presents thirty three rock-solid, field-tested principles that transformed one of the toughest classrooms in America into a focused, thriving place for learning. These are the principles that work—every time, everywhere—regardless of grade level, subject, or zip code. Practical. Proven. Immediately actionable. “33” isn’t theory. It’s the foundation for the kind of classroom every student deserves—and every teacher can build.

This isn’t theory—it’s a proven system that transforms classrooms and renews teachers.
That’s why this is Don’s most requested workshop: because it works.

thirty three principles. One outcome.

When teachers apply these principles, instruction finally gets the time it needs. It’s the shift students need.

Using our exclusive Rep Rap™ system, we show teachers how to effectively manage

Class time

Every minute matters. We empower teachers to take command of class time—turning every moment into an opportunity to teach, show compassion, and inspire.

Student behavior

The best way to handle inappropriate behavior is to prevent it altogether. We equip teachers with strategies to create a positive, respectful classroom where disruptions don’t stand a chance.

Transitions

Transitions are when most behavior issues arise. We train teachers to lead calm, confident, and efficient transitions that maintain focus and momentum.

By demonstrating how to:

Set and maintain high expectations

Students rise—or fall—to the expectations we set. We help teachers establish and communicate ambitious, positive expectations that drive achievement and character.

Motivate students

Students learn best from teachers they like and respect. We show educators how to build strong, authentic relationships that spark motivation, increase effort and reduce resistance.

Create rules that work

Rules should be few, clear, and connected to values. We guide teachers in creating classroom rules that are easy to follow, enforce, and align with student growth.

Implement Routines and Procedures

Strong routines make strong classrooms. We train teachers to design and teach daily procedures that run the classroom smoothly and reduce behavioral disruptions.

Gain Attention Instantly

Every second counts. We show teachers how to gain students’ attention immediately, without conflict or chaos, using consistent, effective signals.

Shape behavior

We train teachers to reinforce what they want to see—and confidently correct what they don’t—without escalating conflict or losing control.

Engage ALL students

Every student deserves to be seen, heard, and challenged. We demonstrate engagement strategies that spark curiosity, increase participation, and keep students focused.

Maximize instructional time

Wasted time is wasted learning. Teachers learn how to eliminate downtime and turn every moment into meaningful learning—without burning out.

Teach for Mastery, Not Just Completion

Getting through the material isn’t enough. We help teachers create classroom cultures where understanding, growth, and perseverance are non-negotiables.

Thousands

Trained

Teachers

retained

Turnover

reduced

The Best Part: Results!

Our workshops produce teachers who are excited again, confident and able to reproduce results in their classrooms!

Call Don Now!