Listen, Encourage, and Smile

By Susan Kraul

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The demands on teachers are countless, and we often wonder how we can accomplish all that is expected of us. But student achievement is the key to our success. While content knowledge is important, most of us remember a special teacher for other qualities including their ability to listen, encourage, and smile! So please:

Listen:

  • to what is implied as well as what is said

  • without contradicting or interrupting

  • with empathy and interest

Encourage:

  • with genuine praise

  • with patience and understanding

  • with support and a pat on the back

Smile:

  • to ease tension

  • to encourage a reluctant learner

  • to welcome students

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