26 traits of terrific teachers

(Taken from material by John Wink)

Adaptable - to their teaching environment and the numerous needs of their kids regardless of the resources they have or the expectations placed upon them. 

Believer - in their own abilities, the abilities of their kids and in the power of education. 

Counselor - to help kids conquer the emotional barriers that consume their lives. 

Diverse - in their approach to help all kids learn. 

Energizer Bunny - #NuffSaid

Father - to the many kids that don't have a positive male figure in their lives. 

Guide - to show each kid his way to a prosperous future. 

Honest - with themselves first and with everyone they influence second. 

Innovative - in finding new ways to help each kid learn. 

Jack of all Trades - skills that are often developed through many hours outside of the work day. 

Knowledgeable - in content, pedagogy, law, and countless other things that are needed to make them effective. 

Learner - because they know that the teacher must always be the first learner. 

Mother - nurturing kids and providing them the love that many do not receive. 

Neighborly - always modeling how to be kind and considerate to everyone they meet, especially those who don't respect them. 

Optimistic - seeing the opportunity in every obstacle. 

Persistent - because giving up on kids is not an option. 

Quick - in their response to every situation. 

Resilient - picking themselves up and dusting themselves off when they fail. 

Supportive - of kids, peers, parents, administrators and education as a whole. 

Tenacious- full of grit and determination to help every kid learn. 

Understanding - that learning takes time and that some kids grow faster and in different ways than others. 

Visionary - in their approach to improve the profession and the world one kid at a time. 

Wild - about life, kids, teaching and learning. 

X-Ray - the ability to see the potential in every kid. 

Youthful - in their approach to life and teaching. 

Zealous - in their love for learning and their passion to instill that love for learning in every child.