| By Vicki Quinn Here are my Top 10 lessons learned during my first year of teaching
high school language arts and drama: 
Vicki Quinn is a language arts and drama teacher at
Bay Port High School in Green Bay. She began her teaching
career in September of 2003. | 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. Return to New Teachers page Posted September 6, 2005 |