Teachers come from a wide variety of backgrounds that makes them almost as diverse their students. Each teacher may come from a different cultural heritage, socioeconomic status, or part of the country, and their interests could range anywhere from music to chemistry. However, I believe that there is one variable that unites all who would like to enter the teaching profession: the desire to help children develop their skills and reach their full potential.
I think that there are two main responsibilities bestowed upon each teacher. First, the teacher is accountable for training the student in the course content matter. Especially in the secondary school years, teachers serve as experts in their field. There is a trust, from students, parents, and administrators, that those teachers will be able to effectively convey the content, methods, and problem-solving skills associated with the topic. For example, in a history class, there is an expectation that the students will learn not only the names, dates, and events, but also critical thinking skills, writing strategies, and other deeper-level thought processes. The teacher needs to be able to hone their teaching in a way that conveys historical information while utilizing thought-provoking strategies.
Second, the teacher should recognize the duty of serving as a role model for the students. Like parents, coaches, and other mentors, teachers can become an integral part of a student’s young life. Teachers interact with students almost every day, and it is very possible that students may begin to look up to some of their teachers as leaders. As such, teachers need to make sure that they are there for their students. I think most of us remember a handful of teachers that we looked up to and influenced us, remembering how we were able to connect with them and what that meant for our own personal development. Education is not just about teaching a subject; it is also about guiding young people as they grow up and discover who they are.
-Alex Nuñez
I think that there are two main responsibilities bestowed upon each teacher. First, the teacher is accountable for training the student in the course content matter. Especially in the secondary school years, teachers serve as experts in their field. There is a trust, from students, parents, and administrators, that those teachers will be able to effectively convey the content, methods, and problem-solving skills associated with the topic. For example, in a history class, there is an expectation that the students will learn not only the names, dates, and events, but also critical thinking skills, writing strategies, and other deeper-level thought processes. The teacher needs to be able to hone their teaching in a way that conveys historical information while utilizing thought-provoking strategies.
Second, the teacher should recognize the duty of serving as a role model for the students. Like parents, coaches, and other mentors, teachers can become an integral part of a student’s young life. Teachers interact with students almost every day, and it is very possible that students may begin to look up to some of their teachers as leaders. As such, teachers need to make sure that they are there for their students. I think most of us remember a handful of teachers that we looked up to and influenced us, remembering how we were able to connect with them and what that meant for our own personal development. Education is not just about teaching a subject; it is also about guiding young people as they grow up and discover who they are.
-Alex Nuñez