According to a study of 944 two- and four-year colleges, "caring attitude of faculty and staff" was listed as the most important factor for retaining students (Roueche, 1993). This article will explain how one teacher demonstrates genuine concern for students while demanding high standards of excellence and student accountability. This is often a balancing act which, when implemented effectively, will most certainly reap rewards. These methods are simple, easy to use, and do not require a lot of advance planning.