An inspiring teacher uses several keys to success:
- He has respect and love for every child, even the ones that act up.
- She never uses negative labels like "naughty" or "lazy". She calls children to their virtues such as "peacefulness", "respect", and "excellence", and acknowledges improvement.
- He is kind and also assertive. Clear class boundaries or a "class promise" is formed early in the year and serves as a standard for behavior. At Araura College (High School) on Aitutaki, each class has created a symbol and a legend of their guiding virtue. For example, one class used a picture of Bob the Virtues Builder. Legend: "Our class wears the hat of leadership and courage to lead forward with strength and good character to the end. The tool belt indicates that we stand united, driving forward with determination for the greater good."
- A teacher is well-prepared, uses humor (especially in these islands!), speaks with enthusiasm and finds creative ways to engage students and inspire them to learn.
Wishing all teachers and students a happy and successful school year! For more on the Five Strategies in character education, see The Virtues Project Educator's Guide on https://virtuesshop.com/