In a 1997 Texas study, students in grades 4 through 6 showed a nearly 20-point improvement in reading scores when they were assigned to highly effective teachers three years in a row, while similar students assigned to ineffective teachers declined by 18 points. Schools often require teachers to teach subjects for which they have little or no preparation. We know that strong content knowledge is a key to effective teaching. But, nationally, more than 25 percent of secondary school teachers do not have college majors or minors in the subjects they teach. Because of budgetary limitations and time restraints, teachers are often asked to teach outside of their areas of expertise.
Good teachers share certain qualities that parents can recognize.
They take a genuine interest in their students as people. They are clear about their expectations. They are eager to share their knowledge and insights. They reinforce positive behavior and discourage unacceptable performance. They can be trusted to fulfill promises.