By Vicki Quinn

Here are my Top 10 lessons learned during my first year of teaching high school language arts and drama:

10. Don't take it personally. They'll love you one day and hate you the next.

9. Try not to be too friendly. Some students get confused about the fine line between teacher/mentor and buddy.

8. At the same time, be friendly. Get to know the students. They're less likely to act out if you have a bond.

7. Try to include a "fun factor" and real-world application. It's amazing how much it helps students understand.

6. Be enthusiastic. It is catchy.

5. Let it go. Leave school issues at school.

4. Remain flexible. Real lessons are not always defined on paper.

3. Admit when you're wrong or when you don't know the answer. The students respond to honesty.

2. Be yourself. That way, students will realize it's OK to be who they are.

1. Encourage lifelong learners, risk-takers, journey-seekers, kindness, openness, and humbleness. It's a small way to improve tomorrow.

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Posted September 6, 2005