The Big XII:

Skills for Teaching

(and Life!)
Heather Sparks, NBCT
Oklahoma Teacher of the Year
May 5, 2009

12. Empathy
Get to know your
students and the lives
they live.
Show interest in student
activities.
Even on your worst day,
youre a students best
hope. ~Larry Bell

11. Respect
Show the respect you
expect.
Find ways to connect
to students.
Create a special
greeting.

10. Patience
Students that are
hardest to love, need
your love the most.
Know when to
reschedule students
Keep your power in
perspective.

9. Flexibility
Be willing and able to
make changes.
Learn to compromise.
Create win-win
situations.

8. Collegiality
Know your strengths and
those of your colleagues.
Find common ground and
work together.
ALWAYS treat the school
secretary, custodian and
other power players
with respect.

7. Creativity
Dont be married to
one specific teaching
strategy or textbook.
Explore resources
regularly.
Seek professional
growth opportunities.

6. Problem Solving
Have a solution before
you complain about a
problem.
Ask advice of other
professionals.
Involve families.

5. Positive Attitude
Fred Factor
Being positive is a choice!
Which candy salesperson are
you?

4. Sense of Humor
Dont be afraid to
laugh at yourself.
Create class jokes that
include everyone.
Learn jokes
appropriate for your
field or subject.

3. High Expectations
Set worthy goals
for yourself and
reflect often on
your progress.
Establish high
expectations for
your students.

2. Amnesia
Learn to let go
Dont be a garbage
truck!
Every day is a
fresh start for
students.

And the number one skill

needed for successful
teaching
(and successful living)

1. Self-Care
Know your needs and make
sure they are met.
As much as possible, leave
school at school.
Adopt a hobby and give
yourself permission to enjoy it!