A Student's Perspective

What things are the mark of a good teacher? There are books, articles, blogs, and so many things that give ideas and tips on how to be a good teacher. The question is: What do students think are the marks of a good teacher? My current students wanted to be a part of my blog. They asked if they could help me write this particular blog. So, below are their thoughts and suggestions on what makes a teacher a good teacher.

Teachers make you feel inspired. They have fun projects for students to do. Teachers help you. Teachers are patient with their students. Teachers care about more than just what their students are learning, and care about what is going on in their lives. Good teachers make you want to have them as your teacher for more than one year. Good teachers have empathy, and try and understand how you feel. Teachers should be kind. Teachers should be hopeful about their student’s futures. Good teachers are not too strict. Good teachers have lots of knowledge. Good teachers have a class pet.

While some of the things they said may not work everywhere, like having a class pet, the heart cry is clear. They want to feel that their teacher cares about them, not just how much they are learning. These students are diverse, and yet when one would express an idea, many would agree. And really, it makes sense. Students, like all people, want to feel valued. They want relationship and connection. Students want to feel that someone believes in them and what they can accomplish. Don’t we all? Let’s work toward being the teachers our students need: ones that care about the person, not just the brain that holds knowledge, and teachers that give students the ability to believe in themselves because we believe in them first.