“Students are hearing what you are not saying”

In education, a question is often asked, “What makes a great teacher?” Of course, the term “great” is subjective but we can all name that one person (or if you are lucky the several) that reached our definition of great. For many of us, while sitting in a less than stimulating classroom, what we heard from our teachers was very similar to what Charlie Brown heard! A lot of “Wah, wah d wahdy wah wah.”

Could it be that what we are really all hearing is not what is being said? In other words, our actions – essentially our character – is what truly stands out. Teachers that inspire, that motivate, that call us to follow are not using their voice but rather speaking through a much louder amplifier, their actions. Whether it is finding the positive in students, showcasing high quality work, or coming to a lesson fully prepared the Charlie Brown “Wah wah…” is replaced with “you matter”; “I believe in you”; “I love your effort”; “I give my all for you” modeled loud and clear.

To witness a great example of a model Athlos teacher, check out Ms. Jessica Martin, at Athlos Leadership Academy in San Antonio, TX teaching a lesson on courage: