June 13, 2016 marks the start of the school year 2016-2017. Again, many teachers need to put their best foot forward to always please the school principal, the students, parents and supervisors and other stake holders and of course, whatever good result they may obtain will be pleasant to themselves.
As F.W. Robertson puts it, “the true aim of everyone who aspires to be a teacher should not be to impart his own opinion, but to kindle minds.”
Every opening of the school year adverse experiences are being encountered by teachers. Most teachers especially the beginning teachers are having the jitters about the first day of classes. The start of the school year will be the routine of facing the whole new set of 40-50 faces, all expectant, and all aiming to meet and assess their new teacher.
However, many teachers follow a guideline in starting the school right. Most of these are learned through years of experience while some are acquired through sheer common sense .
First and foremost remember that the first day of classes seemed to be the display of varied facial expressions, emotions and to some, the first day seems to be intimidating. Most students attend their first day in a particular section, year level or schools with questions in their minds which they embarrassing for fear of being laugh at. Let the first day of school be smooth, by projecting to them that they are all welcome.
Regardless of the year level a teacher is handling , check every information the students are providing , or through their registrations card to be sure that the correct student is reporting to their classroom.
Another concern of a new student is the question. “where am I going to sit ?” An effective teacher is one who listens to students who have different preferences when it comes to seating arrangement . He might have an eye defect like blurred vision , nearsightedness or farsightedness . So, if you want your student to have a good expression of you, invite your student to take an assigned seat , like gracious host would do.
Every students need s to know his limits. The teacher must explain his discipline plan ready for explanation. A copy should be posted visible to the students.
Classroom management is also a big concern for a teacher. He should check the light, temperature or ventilation , the visual the designs , cabinets and other furniture.
Children are also concerned about the way they will be graded. IN an effective classroom students are graded based on their mastery of the learning criteria.
Most importantly, the teacher must be concerned on how he treats himself . Is it with dignity and love ? Consider also how you dress. Make it obvious that you are organized and read , and that you are in control of the learning environment .
Summing it up , the qualities that will help a teacher to carry out the objectives of education include passion for teaching , enthusiasm , sensitivity , heart to teach , interpersonal skill and a sense of humor .
Reference :
L. Magbuhat – Qualities That the Principal Look for a Teacher , Educator Magazine ,Eferza Academic Publication , Lipa City , 2006.
By: Ronalyn P. Serrato | Teacher I | Bataan National High School
