Key Principles of a Differentiated Classroom•The teacher is clear about what matters in subject matter.•The teacher understands, appreciates, and builds upon student differences.•Assessment and instruction are inseparable.•The teacher adjusts content, process, and product in response to student readiness, interests, and learning profile.•All students participate in respectful work.•Students and teachers are collaborators in learning.•Goals of a differentiated classroom are maximum growth and ind