Teacher Appreciation Week 2011

[#1]

I agree with so many of the posts I have been reading.  As I reflect on my first year of teaching, and the years thereafter, I think some of the best advice is first, learning to be fair but firm with students.  Learn to say no.  It may be harder for some than others, but creating boundaries from day one and learning to say "no" can be a great teaching advisary. Second, some advice I received early on, "always give students the benefit of the doubt." You never know the full circumstances of any given student.  It may be a fine line between being to strick or being a push over, find the balance that suits you.  Third, respect your students.  It is a simple concept that I have seen overlooked many times.  Respect goes a long way.  Lastly, keep your students always on their toes by changing things up all of the time.  Surprise them.  Keep your content exciting and ALWAYS catch your students doing good things!  Praise goes a long way as well!

[#2]

One thing I forgot to add and probably one of the most critical is to always be consistent in all of your teaching endeavors!