Since asking all of you last week what qualities you look for in a classroom or teacher, I have been creating my own mental list. I thought I’d use this post to begin putting it into writing. It’s by no means complete. Please add on in the comment section.
When I walk into a school, I want to see:
- smiling children
- smiling staff
- respectful interactions
- creative expression
When I walk into a classroom, I want to see (in no particular order):
- all of the above
- calm children
- warm teacher
- positive, respectful language
- curious children
- purposeful activities
- lack of visual clutter
When I am observing a teacher, I want to see (in no particular order):
- a quiet presence
- an encouraging guide
- passion
- constantly learning and evolving
- someone in control (calmly and confidently)
- knowledgeable
- joy
- creating independence
- fostering creativity and ingenuity
- intrigue
- appropriately high expectations
- genuine interest in the children
- smiles
- good sense of humor
- consistency
- fairness
- good listening skills
- someone who can quiet the room with only the tiniest sound
- differentiates the curriculum to challenge every student
I’ve included a video of a fantastic poem – What do Teachers Make? by the great poet Taylor Mali. [Video includes a coarse but common gesture, in case you need the alert].
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