Q is for Quintessential

This word describes what teachers are and what they strive to be: of the highest quality, the perfect example of class or quality. We don't always hit that mark but the reviews are mixed. One day a parent or student will call, explaining in no uncertain terms that a certain instructor isn't doing a good job. The next day, someone else calls to rave about the same teacher's best points. Definitely, it is a case of perspective.

Try to remember we are dealing with individuals who are bringing as many different experiences to the classroom as we bring educational expertise. Sometimes it is hard to see beyond the issues to the people when we are tired at the end of a long day or an even longer week. And yet, I find teachers are respectful, patient, and professional, and deliver firm expectations tempered by grace, sound educational practice, and insight.

What constitutes a teacher of highest quality, a quintessential educator? We know the metrics for being a master teacher or nationally board certified, but do we believe completion of the requirements for those titles is all it takes to be dubbed one of the best? Or should we consider the spirit or driving force behind each educator as a factor? I believe indeed we should.

It takes an extraordinary person to be willing to respond patiently to a student, parent, or colleague, despite the lateness of the hour. Equally extraordinary is the individual who takes time to constantly create one-to-one interactive sessions for students, who listens an extra 10 minutes even when other things are tugging at her time, and who will leave no avenue unexplored when searching for answers.

Perhaps you don't see those things as going above and beyond. Good - because I would agree. But not all educators are equally talented or devoted to their profession and, more important, to their students. Mediocrity is not an acceptable standard, especially in a virtual venue where communications are too often subject to interpretation if you don't devote the extra effort needed to make sure both message and intent are clear. Additionally, you devote the time to make sure each stakeholder's response is heard and acknowedged.

Reflection: Do you know how to inject personality into your messaging? If your calls or emails are one-dimensional (flat, business-like, boring), your recipients will simply stop reading. Review your subject lines as the "hooks" to your messaging and then, practice being personal and uplifting. Soon it will come naturally and bear dividends.