And, in the blink of an eye.....summer packed up its bags and went away until next year.  So, we find ourselves in the midst of "Back to School-ness."  As such, I'm reminded of the best teachers I have ever known. During my time of reflection, I identified the common qualities of these extraordinary teachers.  

The best teachers I have ever known...
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1.  are organized. 
2.  respect time.
3.  love their subject matter and work to improve their teaching of it.
4.  encourage students through recognition.
5.  are value-added employees.
6.  are optimistic.
7.  are professional.
8.  have high standards.
9.  communicate well.
10. engage students.

This reflection causes me to pause and ask myself:

Am I organized and punctual? Do I seek continual improvement of my craft?  How do I recognize excellence in my area of responsibility? How do I encourage my students?

If I quit my job today, would my supervisor mourn my departure wondering who would do my work or would he/she rejoice? Do I look for new ideas and contribute extra efforts to improve my school/district? Am I upbeat and look for the best in all situations or am I the "prophet of doom?"

Am I professional at all times? Confidential? Do I produce work that is noble and reflects favorably upon my profession? Do I have high standards? If I teach math, for example, do I look for national competitions/honor societies for my students' benefit?

Am I a good communicator? How do I share the good news/challenges related to my students with their parents and them? Am I an encourager?

How do I engage my students in class? Do I give them opportunities to stand before their peers to demonstrate mastery of the curriculum? Do I assign responsibilities to students to promote leadership and growth?

At the end of my day/year/career, there is nothing I long to hear professionally more than this: "You were the best teacher I ever had."

Amber Kent, one of the best teachers I have ever known and Dade County's Teacher of the Year 2018, created an Illumination Award to recognize students of character, such as Camryn. She worked hard for the past three years preparing meals for the hungry in our community.  Shown below left to right: Board Member Jennifer Hartline, Board Chair Carolyn Bradford, Superintendent Dr. Jan Irons Harris, Camryn, Teacher Amber Kent, and Principal Tracy Blevins.