Successful teachers are those that build strong relationships, personalize learning, use effective strategies and help kids learn at high levels. How this is achieved will look different depending on many factors such as the grade level, building needs and school community. However, the one common characteristic that is shared by these great teaches is their “Focus or intentionality”.
This focus or intentional work allows teachers to maximize their interactions with others, be efficient with time and supports the right work. They operate from an understanding of their core beliefs and how it supports their “why”. Teachers must make so many decisions within a day, so this focus is what allows someone over time to continue to grow as a teacher leader and impact others. It starts with connecting with others, building relationships through trust, using researched based practices but then also reflecting and growing as an educator. This only happens from a focus on getting better each day.
I would encourage each of us to consider “what is your focus” or how do you spend your time? This answer will tell you how you are maximizing the limited # of opportunities that exist to help others strive for excellence.
As you strive to learn and stretch yourself as a leader, I would be curious on what you view is the common characteristic of all GREAT middle school educators. Reach out to me with comments at firstname.lastname@example.org