With a plethora of digital tools at their disposal and knowledge at their fingertips, Generation Z students must be engaged in ways that differ from previous generations of students. Using Ryan and Deci's (2000, 2020) self-determination theory and the Student Engagement Core model proposed by Bundick et al. (2014), this qualitative research study used semistructured interviews and focus groups to research the best ways to engage Gen Z students in a classroom setting. Data was coded using thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006), with the self-determination theory's three tenets, relatedness, autonomy, and competence, serving as the initial coding framework. Results showed that there are four essential aspects to creating an engaging classroom climate: building relationships, promoting student autonomy, creating a sense of mastery, and engaging students in work that has a practical purpose. Further discussion includes the role of technology in the classroom and the continued need for an awareness of generational differences in students throughout teachers' careers. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]