What I learned from the greatest teacher I have known

• He understood that the basic or most pressing needs of those he taught had to be met before meaningful instruction and learning could begin. 
• He understood the value of knowing the unique strengths and challenges of each individual he taught.
• He planned with rigorous and high expectations for learners as well as clearly defined objectives and outcomes.
• His command of content was not rivaled among his peers.
• His communication skills were clear and refined.   
• His teaching style often included stories to capture the attention of his students and to offer practical and engaging applications/connections for depth of understanding and learner-share opportunities.  
• He often used calm and thoughtful questioning to challenge and manage those who interrupted or challenged his lessons or authority.  
• He regularly met with small groups or individuals to more directly guide learning or diagnose struggles.  
• His ability to balance clear expectations and boundaries while offering grace endeared his students to his instruction and often created a culture of mutual respect.  
• He advocated the value of early preparation, of consistency, of peaceful silence and reflection, of exercise, of teamwork, and even rest ... yet strategically maximized his teaching time.  
• His creativity and flexibility were often employed to adapt to the setting, circumstances, background knowledge, learning styles, or struggles of those he taught.  
• He had an amazing ability to differentiate instruction by challenging the advanced thinkers while effectively reaching those emerging learners.  
• He consistently demonstrated a passion and patience for children.  
• He embraced inclusion and often requested those students who were hurting, ignored, disabled, forgotten, or struggling.  
• He made home visits when needed or helpful.