Society has changed. Children are being raised in a household where both parents work, by a single parent, or by their grandparents. The responsibility of teaching manners, rules, morals, and even values has been passed on in many cases to the teachers. A teacher needs to exemplify good morals and values and be a role model after which the student can pattern their actions. Characteristics of a good teacher include dependability, leadership, managerial skills, responsibility, honesty, fairness, consistency with discipline, and the ability to communicate and interact.
Students learn best by seeing and hearing correct examples of behavior.
Technology has forced us to broaden our subject matter from reading, writing and arithmetic. We must prepare and provide our students with computer technology to expand their learning and prepare them for the technology world they will be entering. We should also incorporate music, art, and physical fitness into their curriculum. A teacher that mentally challenges her students and a teacher with whom students want to share their experiences. I must nurture their confidence and self-esteem.