I think that a great way to show our students that they are important to us is to allow choice.  Let students decide on their own what is important to them, and allowing them choice allows them to learn in a way that they want to learn.  A great tool to allow choice are CHOICE BOARDS, or THINK-TAC-TOE BOARDS.  Here are some great examples.  

  

Not only do Think-Tac-Toe Boards provide choice, they also are differentiated for each student.  Students will be able to complete activities on their own level, while still having a choice!

These strategies are great ways for student's to feel like their work is important, and what they are doing is worthwhile!