A great teacher gets to know each child individually. A great teacher doesn't bark orders and talk to children in the "to whom it may concern" style; she/he gets to know each child as a unique individual, spending time cultivating one-on-one relationships with each child. Great teachers know children deserve to be treated with individual respect, even if they are in a group setting. It is only as individuals that they can be fully appreciated and understood.

A great teacher shares a joyful spirit . A great teacher knows it is not enough to be "present". Children require us to share our presence emotionally as well as physically. By sharing joy with children, and carrying a positive attitude, great teachers give children hope, encouragement, and a sense of the world being a good place.

A great teacher loves to learn as well as teach. A great teacher is as open to learning as she/he is excited about teaching. Great teachers know that learning and teaching are lifelong processes that go hand in hand. They encourage their students to view learning as fun, and view teaching as a natural outcome of wanting to share enthusiasm for learning.

A great teacher knows how to get back to basics. A great teacher knows children learn best from down-to-earth experiences. Great teachers are less concerned with technology than with nature. They know the value of a walk in the park over a video game. They understand that the best things for children are not always the newest, flashiest or most "advanced". Great teachers understand that children learn from life itself, not just educational toys and man-made experiences.

 A great teacher learns from his/her students. Great teachers influence and are influenced by their students. Not only do great teachers learn about their students, they learn from their students, too. By listening to students, asking them questions, and getting their opinions, great teachers encourage a dialogue that is meaningful and educational for all.

 A great teacher looks at the big picture. Great teachers know how to put learning into context. They help their students understand how each new piece of information fits in with the rest. They seldom teach isolated facts and skills. Instead, they try to help children see how ideas are related to each other, and how they connect to the child's life.

 Great teachers inspire and motivate others. Great teachers share their passion for teaching, and in doing so, inspire those around them, including students, parents and other teachers. Great teachers are gifted in finding the good in each person, uncovering the talents in every child, and fueling the fire of greatness that exists in us all.