School disengagement is linked to a lack of opportunities for students to fulfill their needs for independence and self-determination. Young people have little say about what, when, where, and how they will learn, the criteria used to assess their success, and the content of school and classroom rules. Traditional behavior management discourages the development of self-discipline. Positive learning and growth requires meeting developmental needs of youth, including autonomy which is a prerequisite to responsible independence. When basic needs are met, children like school and are motivated to learn. The author contends that educators have a much deeper purpose than simply preparing children to fit in like cogs in a wheel. Instead, they must recognize their obligation to help children learn how to shape the present and future rather than merely conform to the status quo. This means preparing young people for responsible independence.