Top 10 Worst Things a Teacher Can Do

The article, “Top 10 Worst Things a Teacher Can Do” by Marissa Kelly, focuses on the most important element in teaching – the relationship between the teacher and student. The heart of Kelly’s article is respect and fairness for the student, while maintaining professionalism and boundaries. Kelly disputes the old adage of “don’t smile until Christmas,” but she tempers it with advice of avoiding the trap of becoming the student’s friend. More importantly, Kelly cautions the new teacher about using humiliation or embarrassment as classroom management techniques, and encourages teachers to be fair, consistent, and respectful of students at all times.

Kelly’s suggestions are essential foundations for teachers, whether they are new to the profession or seasoned veterans. Her list of “don’ts” strike at the core of a teacher’s philosophy for being in the classroom. That is, are we in the classroom to foster student learning, growth, and wellness, or are we in the classroom to satisfy some inner, narcissistic, need? Do we as teachers believe that all children can learn or only those from particular backgrounds? Do we believe in the dignity of all students? Our answers to these fundamental questions will determine whether we partake in Kelly’s list of “don’ts” and risk damaging a student’s self esteem, growth, and learning, or avoid these unhealthy pitfalls that ruin the ever important teacher – student relationship.