This speech addresses the relation of effective discipline to the pursuit of academic excellence in schools. The proposed blend of specific strategies, methods, and ways of being conducive to excellence is characterized as "three dimensional discipline." This approach involves: (1) listening to what students are thinking and feeling; (2) clearly defining behavioral and academic expectations, with student involvement in the development of these expectations; (3) becoming proficient with the verbal and nonverbal nuances of communication to avert power struggles; (4) maintaining high expectations for all students and refusing to accept irresponsible behavior; (5) occasionally acting in a manner inconsistent with others' perceptions; (6) becoming familiar with research on classroom arrangement, learning styles, lesson pacing, and the various theories of discipline; (7) regarding discipline as problem prevention; and (8) providing instruction at a level where high success is attainable by each student. (TE)