Being the Professional You Are Meant to Be

I know that I believed in myself enough to be a true professional who my students needed without getting “bogged down” in the many tasks of the job. I knew my students noticed my professionalism and recognize my efforts.

“For example, when a professional is on the case, everybody "takes a breath" because they know the job will be done right. You are that professional!

Being a teacher is one of the most professional professions to work in. I am in awe when I watch teachers in action--it's like watching a master at work. I love to see how they exude the knowledge, the skill, and the devotion in doing a top-notch job no matter what challenges are put in their way.

4 Simple Ways to Exhibit Yourself as the Professional:

Dress the part. Take pride in your wardrobe and present to yourself to your student each day in a garment that says, “I came ready to teach so you should come ready to learn. That is what happens in this room.” Students look up to their teachers and your professionalism will get everyone on board with the business of teaching and learning.

A professional always plans for the present with the future in mind. Looking ahead at the learning standards and upcoming unit(s) helps you know where you are taking your students in the learning process. You come to work prepared. Your lesson plans are in order, your room is organized and conducive to learning and your paperwork is in order. Being a teacher does require some time to prepare before school, during the day, after school, and on the weekends but the more prepared you are, the less time you will have to dedicate to prep work. Finding what works will take time and dedication to get to that level of organization. However, putting in that hour or two each night so you are organized not only makes you a better teacher, but shows your students that this is a professional operation--so be ready.

Students can tell the difference between a teacher who knows what he/she is doing and an unprepared teacher who is floundering. Students “smell” fear and anxiety. Students need and want structure which gives them confidence and a sense of security in knowing what to expect. This professionalism will make a world of difference in how your instruction is delivered.

A professional teacher also responds to interruptions and even disturbances calmly. It is imperative to be proactive rather than reactive. No educator has all the answers but the situations we experience gives us confidence needed to cope with any situation. It’s important that you deal with interruptions quickly and with ease so that your lesson will run smoothly and productively.

Teaching is the one profession that makes all other professions possible.

Thank you for what you do for students each and every day.

Your partner in education,

Tiffany :)