In this episode Eric unpacks the theology of the worthiness of work. He examines the thought that certain work is better than other work. He discusses the core Reformation doctrine of the "Priesthood of All Believers" that influences our work. He ends his talk with a reading of ten encouragements he shared with his colleagues.
10 ways to be an excellent teacher by Eric Davis
1.Love your students-
Teachers are in the people business. They are not in the Math, History, English, or Elective business. Teaching is always about people. An excellent teacher must thrive on being around people and deeply care about them.
2. Stays positive-
This doesn’t mean live in an imaginary world where there are no problems. This isn’t peace faking. This is seeing the world as it is (Failing students, problem parents, too much to teach) and choosing to say that our attitudes matter the most. A positive teacher draws their students into the curriculum and is are better team member.
3. Goes Home-
There is a myth out there that says the best teachers stay up late at night at home or at school and work to develop curriculum and grade papers. These teachers are praised by the media and often by their fellow teachers. Teachers need to understand that this is not a healthy trait. Teachers have families, outside interests, and physical fitness needs. Teachers would do themselves, their families, and their students well if they just went home. They would come back the next day fresh, balanced, and ready to face the challenges of the new day.
4. Have a great perspective-
A teaching career is a marathon. An excellent teacher asks, “What is BEST for my students?” They are not easily swayed by the whims of politicians or the newest educational fad. They have an anchor, a core teaching philosophy, and they stick to it. They are open to changes, but the core anchor doesn’t move.
5. Are great listeners-
Teachers are often great oral communicators. However, listening is often a neglected communication skill for teachers. This is often the case because of time constraints. How often do we ask Johnny how things are going at home? His answers often help us come alongside Johnny to help him understand the curriculum in a new way.
6. Enjoy teaching-
Teachers are often the biggest critics of themselves. Often pushed to become better, more efficient, and meet all needs. The feedback is often very negative. An excellent teacher is open to learning and growing, but also filters the noise. They take a step back and pat others on the back.
7. Appreciate all levels of the Educational structure-
Let’s face it, teachers often feel like independent contractors in our classrooms. The reality, though, is that without competent administrators, Board Members, Paras, custodians, secretaries, counselors, and parents, we cannot do our job effectively. That means appreciating all of these people and letting them know it. This also means that, as much as it is up to you, forming a positive relationship with all those we work with.
8. Patient
We deal every day with people, and most are wild cards. They are hard to understand, hard to get moving, and are definitely complex. The most effective teachers embrace this and enjoy the ride.
9. Communicate with Parents
While our immediate pressing clients are students, we must also understand that we are merely the stewards of the children, and not their parents. Excellent teachers embrace the parents of their students, even the difficult ones. Granted, sometimes we need to stop dealing with a parent for our own good.
10. Be Thankful
I’ve had the HONOR and privilege to work with many amazing educators over my career. They are exemplary human beings and excellent teachers. I’m married to one. THANK YOU.
