Tips from a top teacher

Alessandra Kennedy says successful teachers:

• Are passionate about what they teach. They know the subject they teach well and find exciting ways to bring the curriculum to life. A teacher's enthusiasm for learning is contagious so students want to come to school and learn from them.

• Develop strong relationships with students and their families. They know about student's life outside of school. They connect teaching and learning to students' needs and interests. Students have a strong sense of community, belonging, and purpose in a successful teacher's classroom. This teacher provides an environment of acceptance where students are comfortable taking risks.

• Are lifelong learners who strive to be creative. They are open to new ideas, concepts, tools and whatever it takes to make learning exciting to students. They are innovative and collaborate with colleagues to bring new experiences to their classrooms. Successful teachers share what they know and seek to inspire others.