My name is Kayla Peddle and I am from Brampton, Ontario with a Newfie and Indigenous background. I would like to become a teacher because my passions involve sports/nutrition and also those who have special needs and are on different intellectual levels. My little brother for example has autism and tourettes. I would love to become a figure who can drastically change lives and give children a sense of hope to function in our society and a chance to succeed in life. 

An excellent teacher follows the ethical standards of having trust, integrity, compassion and respect. An excellent teacher has patience and understands that their students will all have bad and good days. What defines a good from an excellent teacher is their ability to be flexible and accommodate each student's various needs. An excellent teacher is a strong communicator, has engaging lessons and makes their students have fun while learning. Also, they will embrace strengths, to allow students to become competent and feel their ability to achieve potential goals while working on weaknesses.  Most of all, an excellent teacher is passionate and loves what they do. This is significant because how you reciprocate yourself is how others will react, so if a teacher is always grumpy and angry, so will their students.

The teachers I have chosen who inspire me are Principal Heather Gibson and Cheryl Carr.

First of all, Heather Gibson has achieved admirable success with those who have disabilities, specifically those who are deaf in the form of ASL. This inspires me because she makes me think of my little brother with autism, and the various other children who are put on waiting lists to receive the necessary care they need such as ABA, IBA, etc. Her success has allowed me to reflect upon myself, such as her awards in obtaining teacher of the year, new teacher of the year, excellent support staff, excellence in leadership, team of the year and lifetime achievement. Her awards and accomplishments allow me to think of her as a role model because they make me reflect on how that could be me years down the road, and potentially being known as someone who drastically supported and changed many lives for children with autism and other intellectual disabilities and their families truly makes me excited. Every child regardless of intellectual level deserves a chance at success in life, and becoming a potential life-changing source really inspires me.

Following this, Cheryl Carr is also an inspirational role model who I look up to. She is known because she won the Prime Minister’s Award, which is truly admirable as the prime minister is in charge of Canada. This award means that she was chosen as one of the few outstanding and innovative elementary and secondary school teachers. She has a great teaching philosophy, but specifically her philosophy of ‘’be the teacher you would like your own children to have’’ really resonates with me. This resonates with me because I fear one day if I do have children, their teacher may not be as passionate and lead them down a path to failure as I myself have had poor teachers and put me in a negative learning position. Parents never know what goes on at all times in the classroom, I've seen it myself with my little brother who has autism, and the lack of patience that EAs and teachers have towards him (yelling at him, putting bruises on him by grabbing his arm, etc.) Teachers drop out all the time and quit for various reasons. This makes me inspired to become a teacher that parents and students genuinely trust. I would love to become a significant figure in my student’s life and watch them grow with their families into successful and fulfilled individuals. Cheryl’s impact on students makes me look up to her, especially with her philosophy I can myself agree with and potentially become that same type of teacher too.

An excellent teacher has to have many tools in their toolbox, these being qualities that make this teacher effective and memorable to the youth and the surrounding community. Excellent teachers are patient and empathetic, understanding that each and every student has different ways of learning along with different speeds of learning. With this comes adaptability, these excellent teachers will also be able to adapt on the fly and adjust their methods of teaching on the go to meet the needs of the student(s). Being excellent also comes with great and strong communication skills, these are a vital attribute as properly and efficiently explaining concepts will be more clear to the students and will build better conversation and trust with their students. in addition , excellent teachers must also be open to change and to learn as well, constantly striving to expand and open up their knowledge to further improve their own self but to also improve their practice. Lastly, an excellent teacher will inspire a love for learning, this will also promote a supportive environment within the school where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions and move out of their comfort zone when it comes to learning. These attributes and qualities not only make an effective teacher but this will also leave a positive impact on the student(s) and the overall community.

One of those motivating instructors is Doug Fraser, an environmental educator at Timiskaming District SS. In a meld of creative teaching and environmental activism, Mr. Fraser was the recipient of the prestigious Premier's Award for Teaching Excellence. His practice that involves hands-on, real-life application through the STSE framework links science to society in a way that provokes critical thinking.What really drives me, though, is the commitment of Fraser to sustainability and experiential learning, encouraging students to think deeply and act responsibly both in and outside the classroom.

The second teacher to inspire me is Bruce White, a retired mathematics teacher from Vincent Massey Secondary School. Some of White's notable accomplishments include winning the Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence and building a legacy of enriched mathematics education through intense problem-solving and competitive math competitions. He is still an active mentor for teachers, a math workshop leader, and a students' contest preparation leader even in his retirement. White's emphasis on process over product, perseverance, and enjoyment of math are those that encourage me to include perseverance and critical thinking in my teaching. What inspires me most, however, is his passion for excellence and giving back to the community, which urges me to push all students to their full potential. These two educators truly model passion, innovation, and impact-all qualities I strive to model as a teacher and a coach.

Qualities of an excellent teacher include:

• Providing an engaging learning environment that promotes learning.

• Being able to adapt “on the fly” and change up lesson plans according to students’ needs.

• Being empathetic and patient towards students.

• Effectively communicating with students, parents, and school administrators. 

• Staying current with teaching and learning methods, information technology, etc.

Heather Gibson is the principal at Ernest C. Drury Provincial School for the Deaf in Milton, Ontario. She was instrumental in developing and implementing North America’s very first curriculum based on ASL (American Sign Language). She recognized that people who are deaf have their own culture, and would learn better if they could be immersed in said culture. Ms. Gibson’s story spoke to me because one of my goals as a teacher is to be able to support students however I can to ensure they’re experiencing positive learning processes.

Another inspiring educator I came across was Lynn Wilkins, a teacher at the Courcelette Public School in Toronto. In short, her philosophy on failure being a part of learning clearly illustrates a growth mindset, which in my opinion is essential for student success. I’ve noticed that many students actually have a deeply-ingrained fear of failure, which can cause substantial blows to their mental health and self-confidence. But, when educators leave behind the outcome-based learning that’s typical in Ontario schools, they provide a safe space for students to comfortably try new things and become more successful. 

I think being a great teacher means caring about your students and helping them succeed in their endeavors. If you care about your students it will translate to every part of your work, from lesson planning, to helping them succeed. I also think that patience is another great quality in teachers, and is one I hope I am able to carry throughout my career. It is so easy for teachers to get frustrated and overwhelmed and lose patience for the students, but after tutoring children one on one, I realized the importance of taking the time and being there when your students need extra support. Another important quality that defines an excellent teacher is the open mind to always be learning. I realized throughout my years of schooling that the best teachers I've ever had were the ones who would still ask the question why. Teachers who acted like they knew everything didn’t contribute to the class, but the teachers who were constantly learning for and from the students taught me a lot. 

A teacher that inspires me from the Professionally Speaking publication is Pareen Gill (Professionally Speaking, June 2020). She prioritizes compassion and caring in her teaching. I really love the quote where she says teaching character shouldn’t be seen as something extra, it should be embedded in the practice of teaching. I love this because through being a caring and compassionate educator, she is able to teach her students how to be good people.

Another teacher who inspires me from the Professionally Speaking publication is Rebecca Chahine. Her practice is about teaching other perspectives to students and life lessons about privilege and the impact that students can directly make on the world! I think that her way of teaching children to recognize that they have a voice and can use it to make change is amazing and so inspiring. I hope that when I become a teacher I can help students realize this as well!

In my opinion, it takes a certain kind of person to become a great teacher. Having qualities such as compassion, trust, kindness, humour, open-mindedness, versatility, confidence, and awareness of any biases that could potentially blind them from the thoughts, feelings, and opinions of their students, create welcoming environments where students feel engaged, listened to, and supported.

One teacher I read about from the latest issue of Professionally Speaking (2021), was John Paul Kane. Kane, after watching a show called Drag Queen Story Hour in which drag queens go to local libraries and share stories with children, had the inspiration to combine his love for literacy and performing by sharing educational moments with children– such as reading to them– while in him and his friend’s drag persona. To me, Kale is a strong-willed, passionate, successive role model for all children, especially queer children, as he promotes diversity, normalcy of queerness, self-expression, and how to use your passions and knowledge to help others. He is also a great representation of queer education within educational institutions, something that I am very passionate about and believe we need more of. His accomplishments are above the praise he gets from families and the OCT, his accomplishments are found in the smiles of growing children and his contribution to the normalization and celebration of queer education.

Another teacher that inspires me is from a “remarkable teacher” article in the 2015 issue of Professionally Speaking about a Scarborough born actor, Erik McCormack, reminiscing on the impact his high school drama teacher, Mort Paul, had on him as a student and eventual actor. In a short summary, McCormack gives praise and honour to Mort Paul for the inspiration, encouragement, and confidence to pursue a career in acting. This story really stood out to me because it highlights the importance of supporting students in the arts. As someone who was in a performing arts program in highschool (also in Scarborough, oddly enough), and who’s most memorable teachers are those of the drama department, I think that supporting students through their pursuit in the arts- which is often overlooked as a serious and valuable course of study- is so important as educators. This support can help the stigma of pursuing a career in the arts, as well as educating students combining their passion with education. Mort Paul is just one example of the many theatre, drama, dance, and art teachers that pave the way for students making their career in the arts. As a performer as well as an educator, I hope to be one of these teachers that students can rely on to support them through their passion and education.

Thank you for reading!

I want to help children expand their knowledge and discover their potential. I have a particular interest in working in an elementary school because these are the formative years where children begin to shape their identities and dreams. I want to be the one who helps guide and inspire them during this crucial period of their development. My dream is to foster a classroom environment where students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to learn and grow. I want to empower them to create their own dreams and to equip them with the tools they need to achieve those dreams. Just as my teachers were a source of support and inspiration for me, I want to be that same pillar of strength for my students, helping them to navigate their own educational journeys with confidence and curiosity.

I believe that the qualities defining an excellent teacher include compassion and empathy. Compassion means genuinely caring about the well-being of your students, while empathy involves striving to understand their unique challenges and perspectives. It’s important to recognize that all individuals come from different backgrounds, shaped by their own experiences and circumstances. As a teacher, you may never fully understand or be able to walk in their shoes, but acknowledging and respecting these differences is key to fostering a supportive learning environment. Respect is another essential quality. Treating others the way you wish to be treated is a principle that extends beyond the classroom. Teachers who struggle with classroom management often lack mutual respect with their students. When respect is absent, it can create tension and hinder learning. On the other hand, cultivating a classroom culture rooted in respect encourages cooperation and engagement. When students feel respected, they are more likely to reciprocate that respect, leading to a more harmonious and productive environment. Trust is equally important in establishing a strong foundation between a teacher and their students. Trust creates a sense of safety and openness, enabling students to share their thoughts, ask questions, and take risks in their learning without fear of judgment. By demonstrating reliability, fairness, and consistency, a teacher can earn the trust of their students, which strengthens the bond between them. This mutual connection fosters a sense of collaboration, where students feel supported and are more likely to engage actively and positively in their education.

I chose to discuss Samantha Leonards, a teacher who inspires others by helping at-risk students dream big and achieve their personal best. She teaches First Nation students in a one-room school in the London area, creating a safe and supportive learning environment. Through her compassion and ingenuity, Leonards has been instrumental in helping her students find success, one step at a time, and erasing the stigma of punishment and failure often associated with alternative education. Leonards’ influence extends beyond her classroom. She earned a Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in 2013. She founded ReConnect Merrymount in London, Ontario, a non-profit crisis center that offers flexible programs for teenage parents who have dropped out of school. This initiative provides these young parents with the opportunity to balance their educational goals with the responsibilities of raising children. The following year, she expanded her efforts by launching a similar ReConnect program in St. Thomas, Ontario, demonstrating her commitment to creating equitable opportunities for education. Leonards' innovative approach not only addresses academic needs but also builds confidence and resilience in her students. 

Her work exemplifies how a dedicated educator can empower marginalized groups, promote inclusion, and foster a lifelong love of learning. Her story reminds me of the profound impact teachers can have on their students' lives, which inspires me to pursue my own teaching journey with the same compassion and determination. The patience required to teach at-risk students is truly admirable. Managing students who attend school inconsistently, present one day and absent for a week, while helping them catch up seems like an exhausting task. Yet, she approaches it with unwavering positivity and a genuine smile. Her passion for helping others shines through, and it’s a quality I aspire to embody in my own teaching journey. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom, as she has even created programs to support students juggling the responsibilities of parenthood. She shows deep care and understanding for each individual's circumstances, striving to meet them where they are. I know that throughout my teaching career, I will encounter students who may feel like giving up. In those moments, I hope to channel her courage and determination to keep them engaged in their education, knowing it can lead to a brighter future.

The second teacher who inspired me is Petra Eperjesi, an innovative educator who created the Outdoor Kindergarten program. Her groundbreaking approach combines learning and exploration in an outdoor setting, providing her students with unique, hands-on experiences. She earned the 2013 Amethyst Award from the Council of Outdoor Educators in Ontario and the 2014 Edward Burtynsky Award for Teaching Excellence in Environmental Education, highlighting her exceptional contributions to education. One of her class projects involved building a tipi shelter spacious enough to house 18 children, a feat that demonstrates her ability to engage young learners in real-world, collaborative tasks. Petra never underestimates her students, instead filling their days with fun, meaningful lessons. Her class learns to count using pinecones and develops their imagination with fallen logs, proving that education can thrive beyond the confines of a traditional classroom. Her teaching method is unlike anything I have encountered before, and it inspires me to think creatively about how to engage students in learning. 

Petra serves as a role model through her unwavering belief in the potential of every child and her commitment to reshaping traditional education. She demonstrates how teaching can be transformative when rooted in creativity, connection, and respect for the natural world. Her approach shows me that learning doesn't have to be confined to textbooks and desks, it can be immersive, dynamic, and deeply personal. She inspires me to think outside the box and to see each challenge as an opportunity to innovate and grow as an educator. As someone who plans to become a physical education teacher, I deeply value the role of the outdoors in a child’s education. Fresh air and an open environment can help ease young minds, just as it does for me. Petra’s approach, encouraging not just play but also teaching important lessons in an outdoor setting, is a concept I intend to reflect on and integrate into my own teaching methods. Her ability to merge fun with impactful learning is something I hope to emulate, creating experiences that inspire and motivate my future students. Petra’s work reminds me of the power teachers have to shape not just academic growth but the overall well-being of their students. Her dedication, creativity, and belief in the importance of fostering curiosity and connection are qualities I hope to carry into my own career. She exemplifies the kind of teacher I aspire to be: one who nurtures a love for learning and creates an environment where every student feels valued and empowered.

Based on my experiences, I believe that the attributes that make someone an excellent teacher are the ability to be flexible, trusting, and caring for the students. To me, anyone can deliver a lesson to a group of students, but growing up, the way I would interact with the instructor was based more on how they treated me. My teachers who asked me how my competitions went, congratulated me on getting my grades up in my other classes, trusting me to work in partners even though other teachers told them I was a “chatty problem”, and being able to make changes to lesson delivery to include everyone’s ways of learning. 

A flexible teacher isn’t someone who can only do something one exact way, but a teacher who notices what does and doesn’t work for their students. For example, teaching a math lesson one day such as division using videos and whiteboards to follow along and seeing that the students don’t understand, the next attempt they could try using math blocks or another method - being flexible in their delivery of the curriculum. Being trusting of your students (to a certain extent) creates responsibility and a sense of leadership with students - letting them work in partnership with their partner of choice, letting students take the classroom soccer ball outside during recess trusting they will return it, and knowing your students well enough to speak with them on serious matters if needed. Caring for your students creates a sense of belonging in the school and classroom community - if students have a rough home life and a rough school life, then they have nobody, whereas if they have a rough home life but a caring teacher, that is one form of motivation to keep showing up to school, applying their knowledge, and staying engaged in the curriculum.

I chose Catherine MacDonald because of her dedication to creating new inspirations for students. Catherine MacDonald created a new program surrounding archaeology and crime scene investigation for young students. This teacher serves as a role model for my future career in teaching because she has found a successful way to introduce essentially a new subject into teaching, providing students with the opportunity to explore a new field of study, determining their likes and dislikes at a younger age, as well as fostering skills such as exploration, using evidence, and imagination to figure out final answers - students use mapping skills and work in collaborative settings - it’s a program that is educational, but is just like a game for kids. Growing up I thrived in lessons such as Catherine MacDonald’s and loved to see things beyond the typical classroom curriculum, which is something I would love to become a part of and implement in my future classroom.

For my second teacher, I chose Kamla Rambaran as the second teacher who inspires me because of her approach to teaching without a textbook in her classroom. Her students are engaged, and motivated, work well in teams, and are excited about their work throughout the curriculum. Kamla Rambaran teaches students the three types of learning (independent, group discussion, and teamwork) and works them through light loads of learning, interesting and hands-on experiences in the work - it is information relevant to the students. Kamla Rambaran inspires me because she noted in her article that it’s not about reinventing the wheel, but the delivery and passion. Her students are engaged and love to complete their work. She inspires my future career as a teacher because of her dedication to keeping students not only participating but walking away from learning and enjoying it.

Thank you

There are 1000s of aspects to a person to make them a good teacher, good communication with co-workers and students is a key quality to make a strong teacher. Teachers need to have the ability to listen well and speak with a true understanding and acceptance. School is the only constant in some students lives making sure the classroom is a safe place and you as a teacher are a safe person to all students is a key to success. Teachers need to be adaptive and adapt to all scenarios and situations as you never know what you'll get for the day. The education is a constant revolving career and constantly adapting curriculum, practicing and requirement wise. Patience and empathy is key to teachers to help students with things going on in their lives.

Two teachers that inspired me are Lynn Wilkins from the "Failure is an Option" issue. Lynn embraces the idea of failure in a classroom and believes it is a crucial aspect of teaching and learning. Her teaching style focuses on fostering curiosity, collaboration, and resilience in her students. She emphasizes the process of learning over the outcome, encouraging students to take risks and make mistakes. She integrates subjects into real-world projects, like the Mars mission project, where students work together to build prototypes and solve problems. She also adapts to diverse learning styles, drawing from her own experience overcoming challenges after concussions. Lynn inspires me because I thrive to be a hands on teacher and I wish to be a teacher who utilizes different learning strategies to help all students learn in their own way. The other teacher that inspired me was Petra Eperjesi was a Kindergarten teacher who coined an outdoor Kindergarten which is an outdoor based program. This program utilizes a 109-hectare woodland as a classroom to teach academic and life skills. Students learn through hands-on projects, such as building shelters, and real-world lessons tied to Ontario’s curriculum, all while fostering creativity, independence, and resilience. Her approach also includes managing risks thoughtfully, empowering students to assess and solve problems independently. This has demonstrated remarkable outcomes, with students becoming confident, proactive learners. Her methods have inspired other educators, highlighting strategies like balancing structured activities with free play, fostering a “yes” mindset to encourage exploration, and dedicating time for unstructured learning. Petra is an inspiration to me because I love the the hands on and the approaches she takes to learning and the difference she makes on students at a young age.

Thank you for reading! :)

The first teacher who stood out to me in Professionally Speaking is Sheri Alcordo, winner of the 2012 Premier’s Awards for Teaching Excellence. Alcordo values a creative teaching style that accommodates many different types of learners. She explains how getting to know your students individually can help to cater lessons towards them, to optimize everyone’s learning. She recognizes that physical learning is often overlooked in the classroom and makes a conscious effort to include this in different learning activities. I see Alcordo as a role model because I would like to make creativity and inclusiveness important staples in my classroom and teaching style. I want all students with different learning habits and styles to feel represented and given an opportunity to succeed in the classroom. The second teacher who stood out as a role model to me is Samantha Leonard. Leonard teaches in a one-room alternative classroom at the Anishnaabe Skiniiw Centre in Southwold. She works one-on-one with students who are disengaged to get back into the classroom and learning again. Leonard makes the lessons resonate with the students who have fallen behind or are out of interest in school and helps many to complete high school diplomas or enter adult education programs. She earned a Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in 2013. Leonard clearly displays the qualities of a compassionate and dedicated teacher who truly cares about student success. She resonates with me as a role model because I would also like to connect with disinterested students to keep them engaged in their education. Sometimes students need a little extra encouragement and personal connection with their teacher and the curriculum and Leonard is a great example of doing this. 

I am pursuing a career as a teacher because I grew up in a family of teachers. My mum is a teacher, and so was my papa (her dad), and their passion for education has left a lasting impression on me. For as long as I can remember, I have been immersed in the world of teaching, whether it was staying late after school with my mom as she prepared her classroom, listening to her share stories about her students, or overhearing her co-workers discuss their challenges and triumphs during their Friday visits to our home.

Growing up with these experiences, I have gained a deep love and understanding of the dedication and care that goes into teaching. I have seen firsthand how teachers have the power to shape lives, not just academically but also emotionally and socially. Teaching, for me, is about more than delivering curriculum and following in my family's footsteps - it's about fostering growth, inspiring curiosity, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Defining the qualities of a great teacher can be challenging because no two teachers are exactly alike. What makes one teacher exceptional for one child might not work for another. That said, there are some general qualities I believe are important in a great teacher:

• The ability to care deeply and go above and beyond for students

• Respect for all learners and their unique needs

• Patience to guide students through challenges

• Flexibility to adapt to different situations

• A balance of being friendly and fun while remaining firm and consistent

• The capacity to go with the flow while staying prepared

These traits, when combined, help create an environment where students feel supported, respected, and motivated to succeed.

Although many of the teachers featured on Professionally Speaking inspire me, the two I am drawn to are Samantha Leonard and Lindsay Hall.

Samantha Leonard is an exemplary OCT whose achievements exemplify the power of compassion, ingenuity, and dedication in teaching at-risk youth. Some of Leonard's accomplishments include:

• Transforming alternative education at the Anishnaabe Skiniiw Centre in Southwold, a Thames Valley DSB alternative classroom to make it a program that her students want to participate in and enjoy doing so.

• Launching ReConnect Merrymount in London, Ontario a non-profit crisis centre with a flexible program that gives teenage parents who’ve dropped out the chance to balance education with their new responsibilities.

As a BSW student, I find Leonard's methods and values deeply inspiring for my teaching and social work aspirations. Her approach reflects key principles of social work, such as meeting people where they are, empowering individuals, and fostering resilience. Leonard's emphasis on cultural sensitivity, creating safe or brave spaces, and addressing the holistic needs of her students resonates with the core tenets of anti-oppressive and strengths-based social work practice (two approaches I plan to utilize in my teaching practice). Her ability to build trust and prioritize relationships offers a powerful example of how to connect with marginalized populations. Just as Leonard uses education to spark hope and agency in her students, I aspire to support my students in overcoming challenges and reaching their full potential.

Lindsay Hall is an inspiring OCT whose innovative approach to teaching Canadian history has redefined how students engage with the subject. Some of Hall's key accomplishments include:

• Her award-winning summative task, Historical Sources for the 21st Century: Significant Canadian World War II Battles and Contributions, emphasizes student choice and creativity. Through projects like comic books, children's books, or short films, students explore Canadian contributions to World War II while developing their critical skills in research, source evaluation, and historical analysis.

• Receiving the Governor General's Award for Excellence in Teaching Canadian History, which was earned through her dedication to student success, both academically and personally.

As someone pursuing a teachable in history, I find Hall's approach deeply inspiring. Her ability to bring history to life aligns with my aspiration to create an engaging and inclusive classroom where students can connect with historical content in ways that resonate with their interests and learning styles. Like Hall, I hope to prioritize both critical thinking and content mastery, ensuring students not only learn about history but also develop transferable skills. Her work reminds me that teaching history is not just about relaying facts but about inspiring curiosity, understanding, and a sense of connection to the past.

Thank you! : )

My name is Hanna, and I am from Barrie, Ontario. I am in my 4th year of Concurrent Education and majoring in English. I am excited to be a teacher for many reasons, one being that I enjoy seeing the process of learning. I find it rewarding when working with a student, and they start to understand concepts that you’ve been teaching them. I see this learning process occur at my summer job at a conservation area where school groups come on field trips to learn about nature. Within my job, I guide the class through numerous activities that teach students about their science curriculums, like food chains, seasons, animal adaptations, and more. Within these activities, I enjoy watching the students apply their knowledge learned in the classroom to hands-on activities, ultimately strengthening their understanding of the subject. Another reason I want to be a teacher is to make students enjoy their learning by making the classroom a positive and fun space where students feel welcomed and respected. When I was in elementary and high school, the teachers I felt taught the best were kind and welcoming; therefore, I would like to be this type of teacher for future students.

A great teacher has attributes like being caring, patient, and flexible. Caring is essential as a teacher as for students to feel comfortable making mistakes and learning to the best of their abilities, they must feel safe in the classroom. A caring teacher will let students feel welcomed at the school, allowing them to learn to their full potential. Next, being patient is essential as a teacher as students are all at different levels of learning, have different needs and come from different experiences, making them each unique. Therefore, a teacher must be patient as everyone will learn differently and require different tools and methods to help them learn. Lastly, a great teacher must be flexible, as the learning process is unpredictable and depends on the student. Therefore, a teacher may have to change their lesson plans depending on the pace of the class's understanding of a concept, involving constantly evaluating the students' understanding. Overall, being caring, patient, and flexible are a few of the many attributes of a great teacher; however, having these traits as a teacher will foster a positive learning environment.

Lynn Wilkins was the first teacher who inspired me in the Professionally Speaking publication. She had her grade 7-8 class do a project where they had to make a structure that protected an egg that fell from a height. Within this project, she encouraged students to make mistakes as it helped teach them how to improve their structure. Additionally, she incorporated multiple elements from different subjects, such as students using financial literacy skills to make a budget and literacy components as they had to create business plans. Lynn is a role model because I love how she encourages the idea that making mistakes is a positive rather than a negative. This is essential in learning as it takes away the pressure on students to be perfect right from the start, ultimately allowing them a more enjoyable learning process. Also, encouraging mistakes creates a more welcoming environment as students may feel more comfortable raising their hands and participating. 

Samantha Leonard is the next teacher who inspired me in the Professionally Speaking publication. She teaches at Anishinaabe Skiniiw Centre, which is an alternative classroom. Samantha has significantly impacted many students' education through her inclusive and caring teaching strategies. For example, she focuses on creating a community by not forcing anyone to speak aloud, when one is absent she makes sure everything is okay, and when correcting work, reviewing it with the student and allowing them to correct it to improve their grade. Additionally, she focuses on the Anishnaabe heritage by inviting Elders into the classroom or going on field trips. Samatha is a role model because I love how she emphasizes caring for students. She takes the time to learn about each individual student and, based on their experiences, supports their learning in a way that suits them best. When I am a teacher, I would love to use some of her strategies in my classroom to create a sense of belonging and community. 

An excellent teacher is passionate, caring, and organized. An excellent teacher is passionate about their subject matter, about teaching, and about continuous learning. This makes their lessons more engaging and creates a good learning environment. An excellent teacher is also caring– they care about their students, believe in their students’ capacity for success, and are accommodating of circumstances. Finally, an excellent teacher is organized. They provide specific feedback in a timely manner and they deliver well-planned lessons with clearly outlined learning objectives. 

Two teachers from Professionally Speaking that inspire me are Kathryn Whitfield and Helen Wolfe. 

Whitfield teaches history, which is the subject that I would want to teach. She uses primary sources to connect her students with the past, and to foster critical thinking and engagement. She created a two-week fieldwork unit that familiarizes students with primary sources and gives them the opportunity to engage in hands-on historical research and practices. Whitfield is quoted as saying: “I try to bring the world into the classroom — and to connect students with their communities. That, to me, is authentic learning.” I aspire to be like Whitfield in this sense– to draw connections between the real world and the classroom; and to make history as engaging and interesting as possible for my students. 

Wolfe, who is described as a “teacher-librarian,” started a highly successful “Girls Crack the Code” lunch club at her school. She also strongly supports literacy (including digital media, mathematics, science and critical thinking), and goes above and beyond to help all students develop these skills and achieve success, no matter their socioeconomic background. A quote that Wolfe said that really resonated with me was: “I don’t consider myself excellent or outstanding. But I’ve always worked at being the best I can be — and that’s what it’s all about.” Like Wolfe, I want to continuously work towards being the best that I can be, and making a difference in the ways that I can.

A great teacher is someone who has unique skills and qualities and fosters a positive learning environment and the main goal is to inspire students to reach their full potential. A passion for teaching and learning shows the spark in students that others may not see. A good teacher should engage in the classroom and drive their students' motivations in life. Teachers should be empathetic and emotional by helping their students through their emotions, struggles and their background. Teachers should adjust to the current situations in their classroom through their students' personal challenges. Communication and welcoming are other great aspects of being a teacher. Understanding their students and making sure to always be someone they can count on is very important. Flexibility is crucial when students need the extra help, it never hurts to go one step above to help with their needs and confidence. Classroom management is essential, an excellent teacher should establish clear rules and boundaries in the classroom to make the day go smoothly.  There are many other qualities of being a great teacher like creativity, being positive and having integrity throughout a career of teaching. Ultimately, a great teacher can create a learning environment where students feel like they can learn, be confident and be supported. Any teacher is not perfect, but someone who is passionate about their goals will have future success. 

To start off, I would like to speak about Sussie Barraud from the OCT supporting students’ mental health. She speaks in a grade 7 class at Valley Park Middle School in Toronto during the year of 2020. She built many forms of trust with her students over the school year and found out a girl in her class was being controlled by her overbearing father. It affected the students self-esteem and she had a hard time fitting in. Barraud had a discussion with the student, where the student felt better letting her feelings out. During many times in the classroom, the student sat near two other students who were also dealing with similar situations of anxiety. Barraud found a solution for them to work as a group together. Later on, the three students became friends and formed a mutual support society. 

In my opinion, I think that Susie Barraud is an inspiration on how she built a trust process with her students. She made the classroom a supportive and inclusive environment where she helped students with their needs. Putting these students in group projects is a great way for the students to feel comfortable talking to each other in a less stressful environment and making new friends on the way. Barraud saw the signs and symptoms of the students struggling, like for example, frequent mood swings, worrying constantly, feeling down. These examples are signs that a student might be struggling in and outside of school. Paying attention to students’ mental health is so important and foundational to a healthy classroom and students. 

The second teacher I would like to discuss is Jenny Chan, OCT, she worked in an online class during the winter of 2021. She teaches at the public school in the Toronto District School Board. While on zoom, she was checking in on her Jk students who she could see each student on her computer. One of her students was playing around and not paying full attention to the class. Suddenly on the zoom call she saw this student take a hit to the head by an adult. The student was knocked off the chair after the hit. Chan quickly messaged the ECE who was helping the class online and asked what happened. Chan then got the ECE to take over the class while she contacted the Children’s Aid Society (CAS) and notified her principal. 

In my opinion, I believe that Chan did a great job of Duty to Report because although the act was disturbing and caught on camera, She knew that the child was being abused or neglected. She has taught me the importance of an unexpected view of a student being abused and I know what to do when I see this happen in my class. Without the studeing knowing anything was wrong she reported it right away. This shows the duties of a teacher and the importance of Duty to Report. 

An excellent teacher embodies a variety of qualities, with compassion, empathy, and understanding being at the core. They must be able to connect with their students, offering not just knowledge but also guidance and support. Many students come from difficult backgrounds, some carrying trauma and mistrust toward adults. In these cases, an exceptional teacher can become a true role model, someone the student feels safe turning to for help and reassurance. Beyond empathy and compassion, excellent teachers are also highly knowledgeable, but it is how they convey that knowledge that sets them apart. They understand that students, especially those in high school and elementary school, are not at the same level as university students, and they do not expect them to be. Learning takes time, and not every student will grasp complex concepts immediately. An excellent teacher is patient, ensuring that lessons are delivered in a way that all students can follow and understand. They keep a watchful eye to make sure no student falls behind or loses confidence, always adjusting their approach to help everyone succeed.

John D'Arcy’s work as a teacher is a major inspiration for my own teaching aspirations. His ability to connect with students, embrace new technology, and foster creativity through initiatives like the McLuhan MultiMedia Festival shows how a teacher can engage students in meaningful ways. His focus on trust, compassion, and giving students the freedom to explore their passions aligns with the kind of teacher I want to be. I want to be someone who helps students feel supported, empowered, and excited about learning new things. D'Arcy’s approach reminds me that teaching is about more than just delivering lessons; it's about guiding students toward discovering their potential and achieving their goals, and that’s the kind of impact I hope to have.

Lindsay Hall’s approach to teaching history is a strong example of how to engage students in meaningful ways while making learning relevant to their lives. Her creativity in using media such as video games, films, and graphic novels to teach about World War II shows how an excellent teacher adapts to students’ interests and learning styles. Hall doesn’t just teach historical content; she teaches students to think critically about the sources of information they encounter, a skill that will serve them long after they leave her classroom. Like Hall, I want to create lessons that are engaging and personalized to my students, where they feel supported and motivated to succeed and where learning becomes both meaningful and fun, keeping the students engaged and interested.

My favourite teachers in both elementary and secondary school were the ones who you could tell truly cared about their students.  The teachers who showed up to extracurricular activities outside of school hours to show support, answered every single question you threw at them (no matter how idiotic), and were there to guide you along the way whether or not you realized it in the moment.  The qualities of a person which define a great teacher are just that: qualities.  What truly defines a great teacher is their actions; their ability to treat others with respect and compassion, maintain integrity in their craft, and build trusting relationships with their students.  Overall, a great teacher is someone that students not only respect, but know that they will always have in their corner, cheering them on.  

As a hopeful future STEM teacher, I decided to select teachers from the Professionally Speaking publication who taught within those teachable subjects.  The first of those teachers is Duncan McIntyre, a high school math teacher who encourages students to have fun in math while also emphasizing its importance in real-world applications, like I aspire to do in my future classroom.  Subsequent to teaching for 10 years, McIntyre was honoured with a Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence and upon reading his article in Professionally Speaking, I understand why!  He incorporates enthusiasm into his classroom by referring to homework as “homefun” and breaking out into song and dance during his lessons.  This particular approach stuck out to me, as these outlets are also interests of mine that I will definitely be implementing in the classroom in an attempt to engage students.  Ultimately, Duncan McIntyre exemplifies exactly what I hope to be as a future STEM teacher: the teacher that is able to change students’ negative mindsets about math and/or science by encouraging them through creative outputs and a contagiously enthusiastic attitude.  Furthermore, the second teacher I selected from Professionally Speaking is Lynn Wilkins because her perspective on teaching is what I also hope to convey to my future students: that failure and mistakes are encouraged and a necessary step to reach success.  In her 15th year of teaching, Wilkins received a Certificate of Excellence from the Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence for her dedication to differentiated instruction, as she targets a variety of curriculum content through individualized assignments as well as her commitment to encouraging students to try and make mistakes, as she believes that more improvements occur when students are not afraid to fail.  Ultimately, Lynn Wilkins’ belief that failure is an option is inspiring to me as a future teacher because so often we are told that there are only right and wrong answers, when in actuality, there are many different ways to answer a question and it is our responsibility as teachers to ensure that our students feel supported enough in the classroom to try, and if they fail, to try again.  

My name is Abby Linehan, and I am from St. Catherine’s Newfoundland.

I chose to become a teacher because I have a passion for teaching and coaching, sports have always been a big part of my life and I love giving back to sports that has given me so much in life. I love being able to teach kids and promote fitness and healthy lifestyles. Physical Education is dynamic and fun with more hands-on learning which I enjoy. I think teaching is more about playing games and promoting exercise it gives me the opportunity to teach kids valuable life lessons and skills.

The first teacher I picked is Kevin Bush, his accomplishments include building a unified culture, A diverse and frequently disgruntled student body was brought together by Bush's introduction of the idea of "knighthood," a school-wide theme that promoted honor, respect, and courtesy. The "five Cs"—Courtesy, Common Sense, Cooperation, Communication, and Career—support the knighthood framework by encouraging life skills and a feeling of community. Bush serves as a role model because of His ability to establish a personal connection with each student, knowing them by name and keeping an approachable and visible presence makes his leadership stand out. His innovative approaches, like setting up a school health clinic and combining life skills and athletics, highlight his dedication to the overall development of his students. His conviction that education is a liberating and transformative process encourages staff and students to realize their own potential and make significant contributions to their communities.

The second teacher I picked is Lynn Wilkins, her outstanding contributions to education were highlighted in 2019 when she was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence. This teacher is a role model because failure, according to Wilkins, is a necessary component of learning. She creates a secure, encouraging atmosphere where students are at ease making errors and growing from them.

My name is Tessa Favero and I am from Sudbury, Ontario. I love all things about physical education, particularly outdoor activities, nutrition and sports. I want to become a teacher because I am passionate about making a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of students. Throughout my own education, I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible teachers who have given me valuable life skills and wisdom that I’ll carry with me forever. These teachers taught me the importance of empathy and the power of a positive mindset, lessons that have shaped who I am today. On the other hand, I’ve also had teachers who seemed disengaged and didn’t put in the effort to connect with their students. These experiences had a negative impact on my education, leaving me dreading school and feeling disconnected, which is such a large part of one's life. I feel that every student deserves to feel supported, valued and some excitement in the classroom, and I am committed to being that kind of teacher who will foster that environment where students are not only learning but feel joyful.

I believe that key attributes of an excellent teacher include communication, adaptability, and passion. Communication is essential because the way a teacher communicates with their students directly affects their ability to learn and engage with the material. Teachers have to be able to communicate in a manner that suits each need of students, adapting their approach to accommodate various learning styles, abilities, and cultural backgrounds. Adaptability is equally important, as lessons won’t always go as planned, and students may not always respond as expected. A teacher must be able to adjust quickly and find new ways to connect with students to ensure they are learning effectively. Passion is also a vital attribute because if a teacher doesn’t love what they do, it will show in their teaching. Teachers who are genuinely passionate about their subject and their students' well-being are more likely to put more effort in finding ways to support their students. From my personal experience, the best teachers have always been the ones who made an effort to provide extra help, create engaging lessons, and truly cared about their students.  

Petra Eperjesi, a teacher at Tawingo College, started Outdoor Kindergarten, where kids ages 3 to 5 spend their school days playing and learning in 109 hectares of forest instead of in a regular classroom. I’ve always had a deep love for the outdoors and truly believe kids should spend more time outside. Nature offers endless learning opportunities, helping children develop essential skills like creativity, independence, and problem-solving. Petra Eperjesi’s Outdoor Kindergarten is a huge inspiration for me because it aligns with my belief that outdoor learning is key to kids’ growth. She shows how much children can learn and thrive when they’re given the freedom to explore the natural world, and that’s the kind of teaching I want to bring to life.

Paul Finkelstein, a culinary arts teacher at Stratford Northwestern Secondary School, is known for his hands-on, real-world approach to teaching. He created a student-run cafe, the Screaming Avocado, where his culinary students learned to cook while promoting healthy, delicious food to both the school and the local community. As someone deeply passionate about nutrition and the importance of eating well for proper growth, development, and overall health, Paul’s focus on teaching students about healthy food choices is truly inspiring. I believe that as students get older and begin making their own food decisions, it’s crucial they understand how to make healthy choices, something I think is often overlooked. His enthusiasm for teaching food and wellness motivates me to do the same, helping kids make better, healthier choices in their everyday lives. 

     Attributes of a Great Teacher

A great teacher possesses qualities that enable them to inspire, guide, and nurture their students effectively. Every teacher brings their personal style and strengths to the classroom. There are some important attributes that define excellence in teaching. First, an excellent teacher is deeply passionate about their subject and the act of teaching itself. Their enthusiasm is contagious, sparking curiosity and engagement in their students. Second, great teachers are empathetic, and understanding of the diverse needs, challenges, and strengths of each student. They create a safe and supportive environment where students feel valued and heard, fostering trust and open communication. Third, no two students or classrooms are the same. An excellent teacher is flexible and creative, capable of modifying lesson plans and introducing innovative methods to keep learning engaging This brings me to strong classroom management skills. An excellent teacher balances structure and freedom in the classroom. They establish clear expectations while fostering a positive, respectful atmosphere that encourages active participation and collaboration. Lastly, teaching requires alot of patience and perseverance. Great teachers understand that progress takes time and remain committed to their students’ success, despite difficulties. They celebrate small victories and continuously motivate students to achieve their goals.

Highlight Role Models from Professionally Speaking

Sheri Alcordo keeps students on their toes by introducing a variety of hands-on activities that involve student mentoring, acting, writing plays and comic strips, audio and video reporting, and integrating computer technology.“Some students need to move around. I try to tap into those kids as well kids who are different learners.” I want to reach the different learning styles in my classroom so each student feels they are able to be the best versions of themselves.“I tell them that I’ve gone through many challenges and show that you can overcome anything — as long as you have inner motivation and someone there for you. I want to be that role model for my students and be that shoulder they can lean on. She doesn’t mind sharing her mistakes and the lessons she’s learned if it’ll help her students grow which is something I respect and something I inspire to be like. Alcordo reveals that as a student, she wasn’t good at math and had to seek extra help as did I. In the article the principal stated “She is a strong advocate for her students and teaches them to be strong advocates as citizens,” says Driftwood PS Principal, Debra Lavine, OCT. Sheri's six secrets to success were mentioned at the end of this article. These strategies align greatly with how I want to run my classroom.  

The second teacher I chose from the Professionally Speaking publication who inspired me after reading about their impact on the profession was former Olympic wrestler Chris Woowadcroft.  He likes to celebrate victories whether big or small. Great leaders know their purpose is to serve those they lead. Chris shares his favorite management strategies for vice-principals and principals. These include building relationships, and keeping them real, staying positive, remaining calm, and respecting the 24-hour rule. These strategies are things I'm working toward and strive to implement in my practice. 

I come from a family of educators, teachers of faith as well and teachers of education.  I am passionate about making a positive difference in children’s lives, inspiring them, and igniting a flame of interest in them to want to learn. I want to help students reach their potential. 

Attributes of a Great Teacher

Nikos Kazantzakis sums up a teacher's job nicely; “True teachers are those who use themselves as bridges over which they invite their students to cross; then, having facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse, encouraging them to create on their own.”

A great teacher, above all, follows the ethical standards of Teachers.

I believe they treat their students fairly based on their circumstances and needs to achieve that equitable outcome. They are consistent, predictable, and true to their word; they are patient, kind, empathetic, organized, versatile, approachable, and open-minded. A great teacher knows their students!

Role Models

1. Jane Dewar was the first teacher who stood out to me; she was an Art teacher teaching south of Barrie in Simcoe County at a composite school. Dewar was awarded the Premier’s Awards for Teaching Excellence’s Teachers of the Year in 2009-2010.

I admire her compassion and dedication to the students who have fallen between the cracks of our education system in Ontario. I am inspired by her enthusiasm, her desire to continue professional learning and her constant self-reflections on how to become a better teacher despite her 17 years on the job. I admire her ability to create a safe classroom environment, engage students and make the curriculum relevant to them.

2. The second teacher who stood out to me was Catherine MacDonald, who teaches in the Durham Catholic School Board. She was awarded the Premier’s Awards for Teaching Excellence’s Teachers in March 2014.

MacDonald created and taught an enrichment program for grades 4-8 in archeology; writer Trish Snyder reports that MacDonald “give[s] young people a personal connection to Canadian history.” MacDonald is described in the article as patient and with boundless energy. She inspires me to go beyond the classroom and the textbook to find ways to engage students in their learning journey.

The qualities of an excellent teacher to me include a passion for what they do. This can be present in the teaching itself, or within the subject being discussed because I believe that passion is contagious.

Another must have quality is the ability to make others feel safe and respected is another must have for a teacher. If a student does not feel safe or respected in a classroom then they will not learn, and if they are not learning then they are wasting their time and likely becoming jaded with the education system which isn't good for anyone.

The last must have is the ability to not know and to change. The world never stops and there is always more to learn, so the ability to say "I don't know, but lets find out" is a must for teachers. Same goes for the ability to change. Different challenges will be presented so the ability to be quick on your feet as a teacher is a must to be effective.

My first inspiring teacher is Jessica Kennedy from I.E. Weldon Secondary School in Lindsay, Ontario. Jessica is a high school drama teacher which is a position I am interested in later in my career. After reading her article and watching her video I find her inspiring because of how dedicated she is to student control over their own education. Especially in an art where works should feel personal she encourages the students to connect with the work. Through the use of experts in the topics they are covering, local stories to their community, or the human experience throughout history all students are given an opportunity to connect to their artwork in some meaningful way.

My second inspiring teacher is Steven Revington from Emily Carr Public School in London, Ontario. What inspires me about Steven is his approach to real-life learning. This commitment won him the Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence in 2015 and it is easy to see why. His Authentic Learning model encourages students with very clear real world uses for the content they are learning. This all comes to a head in the egg drop competition where students get to role-play as NASA scientists landing on a new planet. This type of teaching is fun and memorable for students but also offers so much opportunity for life lessons which I believe to be essential for a good teacher to offer their students.

Hi! My name is Katelyn Albrecht, and I am from Whitby, Ontario. I am currently doing my undergrad in psychology, minoring in biology. My entire family essentially works in a school setting, so I’ve been exposed to the profession from a very young age. I knew that I wanted to be a teacher since elementary school, although my reasons back then were a little different (i.e. I wanted to write on chalkboards for a living). My experiences being captain of my sports teams, tutoring, babysitting, working as a school secretary, and working as an educational assistant have allowed me to fall in love with teaching and mentoring students. 

Reflect on the Attributes of a Great Teacher

In my opinion, based on what I’ve experienced firsthand as a student and working in a school setting, I believe the qualities of a great teacher include being compassionate and empathetic towards students as well as towards parents and colleagues. It involves being flexible and accommodating towards all students, as not one student will be the same. A great teacher is someone who is kind, patient, and is able to adapt in our constantly changing school environment. Most importantly, I think a great teacher is someone who gets to know you, and genuinely becomes interested in what you’re interested in. A teacher who listens, will ultimately build stronger relationships with their students.

Highlight Role Models from Professionally Speaking

I am a huge outdoorsy person. I love camping, hiking, swimming in lakes, learning about plants, bugs, and animals. So, I was immediately captivated by Petra Eperjesi, who fosters learning from experiencing the classroom outdoors. Her students, ages 3-5, experience their schooling through nature-based learning, which includes not just learning about nature, but involves nature in their learning. For example, Petra teaches her math curriculum by getting her students to count pinecones. As someone who basically grew up playing outdoors, Petra’s way of teaching would’ve definitely gotten me excited to come to school every day to learn. This is something I hope to include in my own classroom one day. 

Another teacher I found to be incredibly inspiring is Lynn Wilkins. Her article begins by explaining a project that she had her grade 7/8 students do, which includes building a vessel that can hold an egg. The goal: keep the egg from breaking when dropping it off the roof of the school. Lynn describes that most students' eggs broke on the first try. But, the important lesson of this project is that failure is ok, and even welcome. Many kids, especially in today's society, are incredibly hard on themselves. Lynn Wilkins' lesson that ‘it's ok to fail’, is one that should be implemented in every classroom.

A great teacher is more than just a teacher. They are a mentor, a motivator, and a guide that inspires their students to achieve their full potential. A great attribute for a teacher to have is to be passionate about educating. This passion brings energy and enthusiasm into the classroom making learning more engaging for the students, making it easy for students to be more comfortable in a learning environment. The way a teacher presents material and how passionate they are about educating can spark personal interest within students that can stick with them throughout their lives. Empathy and compassion are equally important traits because they allow teachers to diversify their learning style, and accommodate every student's individual needs and challenges. These traits build a class environment a student can feel secure in as they will know they will not be left behind in the class knowing the teacher understands what they are capable of, and what they are struggling with. More attributes of a great teacher are patience and flexibility which are highly valued. This allows teachers to adapt with difficult challenges that come with teaching whether it be unforeseen challenges, the varying needs of students, or the demands of education.

The first teacher I selected that inspired me from the Professionally Speaking publication was Rebecca Chahine. She and her students demonstrate that small changes can eventually lead to very significant impacts, concerning energy and the environment. Rebecca integrates environmental consciousness into her teaching which instills a sense of responsibility and awareness into her students. Her dedication to doing this serves as a powerful example of how educators can influence positive change from beyond the classroom. This inspires me as a teacher to incorporate real-world issues into my teachings to educate my classroom of these important lessons, making education relevant and transformative. The second teacher is Robert Flosman, he is recognized for his teaching methods that integrate technology into the classroom. By using digital tools he has been able to enhance student engagement and run interactive learning experiences in the classroom with this technology. Flosmans approach demonstrates the need for teachers to adapt to the technological advancements required for today's education. This inspires me to incorporate technology and similar strategies to enhance the learning experience of my future students.

Although there are many attributes which make a great teacher, I believe that some of the key attributes are someone who has compassion, is flexible, and is passionate. Compassion is essential as a teacher because it allows you to connect to your students which strengthens your relationship. When you have compassion, it allows you to better understand your students' challenges and differences. This gives you the ability to address and support your students' needs and allows students to be successful. As well, a great teacher is flexible. Every day teachers will face challenges which might cause them to have to adapt quickly. An unpredictable situation might arise which would result in the need to be flexible so that the day can continue despite having to make changes to what you had planned out. Additionally, a teacher should also be passionate about what they are teaching. If a teacher does not sound like they want to be there this will reflect on their students. If you are teaching a lesson just because you “have to” the students will not be engaged and will just be bored. Someone who is passionate about teaching makes lessons exciting and fun so that students will want to learn. 

The first teacher I found inspiring was Lynn Wilkins. Lynn is a teacher at Courcelette Public School in Toronto. She explains how failure is not a bad thing and describes how it facilitates learning. As well, she talks about how students are more relaxed when they do not have to focus on the outcomes and can spend time focusing on the process instead. This is very inspiring to me because as a student I was and still am very focused on my grade. This usually results in memorization rather than learning and understanding. Lynn is a great role model as she explains the importance of making learning project based so that the learning process is emphasized rather than the outcomes. As well she mentions the importance of linking projects to outside the classroom so students feel a connection to the real world. 

Claudine Tyrell is a third year teacher in the Toronto DSB. She was nominated for Teaching Excellence in the New Teachers of the Year category. She is inspiring as she stresses the importance of student success both in and outside of the classroom. Claudine stresses the importance of knowing your students. She explains how students need to know that you are not their friend, but you are there for them. This is an example of how to establish professional relationships with your students. As well, Claudine explains the importance of asking for feedback. This is inspiring as when I become a teacher I should ask questions. Claudine explains how she doesn’t consider asking questions to be a sign of weakness and how she wants to be like her experienced colleagues. Her passion for wanting to improve as well as for creating relationships with her students is what makes her a great role model.

After I graduate, I plan to get additional qualifications to teach kindergarten to grade three French Immersion. I believe it’s important to reach students early in their education to build their confidence and love for learning.

To me, being a good teacher means more than just teaching lessons. It’s about creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. A good teacher inspires curiosity, encourages creativity, and adapts to meet the needs of each student. It’s also about fostering cultural awareness and teaching students to appreciate diversity. I want to be the kind of teacher who not only educates but also empowers students to believe in themselves and their abilities.

I was quite inspired by Shantelle Browning-Morgan, who empowers students through her African Studies course. Her work educates others about African history, challenges stereotypes, and encourages student-led initiatives which fosters a sense of empowerment and understanding in her classroom. She motivates me to incorporate similar values of cultural representation and student empowerment into my teaching one day.

Katie Cole also inspires me with her innovative approach to media literacy. Her dedication to helping students critically analyze media while fostering collaboration and creativity is something I aspire to bring into my own French classroom in the future. Her ability to make learning engaging and meaningful motivates me to ensure that my students feel inspired and supported in all aspects of their education.

My name is Megan Axiak, I am in the concurrent education program with a specialization in sociology and a teachable in Native Language. I am also from Hamilton, Ontario. Growing up, I always wanted to be a teacher and work with children. I would always love to pretend I was a teacher at a young age, and always help my teachers out with organizing lessons. I have been inspired by great teachers in the past as I want to use their qualities into my future classroom. I have always loved children as I worked as a camp counselor for several years. I want to work with Elementary school children because it is my goal to support and inspire children to unlock their full potential. 

To identify an ‘excellent teacher’ there needs to be a combination of qualities and attributes that not only affects the students academic growth but also the personal life of the child. I believe the importance of respect is crucial, building a positive environment where all of the students feel safe and included. With that being said, the teacher should have strong communication skills where they can explain lessons to all of the different learning styles, and will assist with feedback and questions. Also ensuring that the students feel welcome to ask for help if needed. I also believe that it is essential to stay up-to-date with teaching styles as the curriculum is always changing. All students have different needs and ways to learn, and being able to adapt will help the students stay engaged. 

To highlight some great teachers in my post I have chosen to explain Tom Deer and Beth Alexander. To start, Tom Deer is a teacher coming from the Six Nations of the Grand River. He had always been inspired by the love for languages which made him want to become a teacher. He taught students from Kindergarten to post-secondary helping them learn and understand Mohawk and Cayuga languages. I find his work to be very inspiring because he connects to both his culture and students. Some of Deers accomplishments include, his lifelong commitment to teaching Indigenous languages, innovative language programs, his community leadership and impact, and his award in Guiding the Journey: Indigenous Educator Outstanding Educator of Indigenous Students award. His approach is very community-centered and engaging. He is a role model because his work focuses on both traditional and modern methods of teaching such as hand-on activities like the “shoebox” activity but also using technology were more students are comfortable with. 

The next great teacher that I want to touch upon is Beth Alexander. Alexander works as a certified teacher at the Linden School Board in the Toronto area. Her love for teaching science, engineering, technology and mathematics fosters around girls. Some of her key teaching styles include hands-on learning as she transformed science from basic formulas to exploration and problem solving. She has several accomplishments in her lifetime of teaching which include 14 years at the Linden School, creating a “makerspace”, and she also focuses on social justice and real world issues. Alexander is a role model to me in various ways because of the way she blends her teaching approaches. She focuses on breaking the barriers and helping students gain confidence in their work by taking risks and asking questions.  

Reflecting on the Attributes of a Great Teacher

I think a great teacher is someone that goes above and beyond their usual duties to create a space where students feel inspired, supported, and motivated to learn. They’re passionate and knowledgeable about their subject, and they bring it to life with clarity and enthusiasm. I also think what truly sets them apart is their empathy and patience. They listen attentively to their students and they understand their unique struggles. This creates a safe, encouraging environment where everyone feels seen and heard. Adaptability is another key trait of a great teacher. They know that no two students learn the same way so they tailor their teaching methods to fit different needs. They’re willing to put in the time and effort to make sure every student has a chance to succeed. Great teachers also have good classroom management where they can balance structure with positivity to create an atmosphere of mutual respect and focus. Finally, I believe that great teachers are constantly striving to grow. This could be by experimenting with new teaching strategies or being open to feedback from both colleagues and students.

Role models

The first teacher I picked is Steven Revington. Some of his accomplishments include: awards from TV Ontario and Western University. In 2015, he won a Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence and was one of three Canadians selected to become one of the Top 50 finalists for the Global Teacher Prize. He created something called the Authentic Learning model, which brings real-world applications into the classroom. For example, he had his Grade 4 class design capsules to protect raw eggs from being dropped from a four-story height, teaching them about gravity in a hands-on, and exciting way. As someone who wants to teach science this inspired me because I love how he makes learning practical and meaningful, turning abstract concepts into something students can actually experience. This shows just how powerful experiential learning can be, and it’s the kind of engagement I hope to bring into my own teaching.

The second teacher who truly inspires me is Lynn Wilkins. This is her 15th year at Courcelette Public School. In 2019, she received a Certificate of Excellence from the Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence. She teaches Grade 7/8 students and she emphasizes project-based learning and encourages her students to embrace failure as a natural part of the learning process. This approach not only makes learning engaging and collaborative but also teaches resilience and critical thinking. Wilkins' philosophy of viewing failure as a stepping stone to success inspires me because it fosters a growth mindset and prepares students for real-world challenges.

To me, an excellent teacher builds trust and connection with students, offering them a safe space to express themselves. They adapt their teaching to meet diverse needs, recognizing that every student learns differently. Great teachers advocate for mental health, ensuring emotional well-being is prioritized alongside academics, and inspire curiosity and confidence, helping students overcome challenges and grow. These qualities remind me of a remarkable teacher who guided me from Grade 4 until I graduated high school. Her belief in my potential and her willingness to accommodate my needs taught me how transformative a great teacher can be.

I also believe an excellent teacher is passionate about learning, empathetic to students' unique challenges, creative in their methods, and committed to personal and professional growth. These attributes are exemplified by two inspiring educators featured in Professionally Speaking, Mary McBride and Carolyn Wilson.

Mary McBride, with over 36 years of experience teaching Latin, ancient Greek, and French at Banting Memorial High School, has turned these classical subjects into exciting and interactive learning experiences. From chariot races to creative scrapbooks and vocabulary games, her innovative teaching methods captivate students and foster a lifelong love of learning. Mary’s ability to make even the most demanding subjects enjoyable motivates me to prioritize creativity and passion in my future teaching.

Carolyn Wilson, a teacher of English, media studies, and global issues, has dedicated her career to developing compassionate, globally aware students. She integrates media literacy and real-world experiences, such as international trips, to teach social justice and interconnectedness. Carolyn’s focus on real-world relevance and critical thinking inspires me to create lessons that empower students to become informed, socially responsible citizens. Her ability to connect learning with life is something I deeply admire and strive to emulate.

As a future teacher, I want to create classrooms where students feel seen, heard, and empowered to succeed. Drawing from my own experiences and the examples set by Mary McBride and Carolyn Wilson, I aim to foster inclusivity, prioritize mental health, and inspire a lifelong love of learning in every student I have the honour of teaching.

My name is Zachary Willems and I am from Newtonville, Ontario. I grew up with both parents as teachers and saw what a teaching profession was like on a daily basis. As an empathetic and caring person, I found myself wanting to pursue the same career as my parents as I enjoy helping others and working with children.

I think there are multiple facets of making a good teacher. On one hand, professionality is important. Being punctual, organized, respectful, and conducting one’s self appropriately is required. However, what makes a great teacher is many other qualities. A teacher should be kind and care for the students, helping them learn, develop, and pursue their goals, aspirations, and passions. They should also spend time outside of class hours to engage with the students through extracurricular activities or extra help services for students who need it. Teaching is not a simple 8:00-3:00 job, time needs to be put into providing a fulfilling school experience for students of all ages.

Looking through the Professionally Speaking website, two teachers that inspired me include Beth Alexander and Sheri Alcordo. Beth Alexander teaches science and technology at The Linden School. She promotes learning, experimenting, overcoming obstacles, and benefiting from experience through her pedagogy. This inspires me to cater to children’s imagination, creative side, and curiosity. I want to help students discover new things and expand their horizons as they develop their own interests, personalities and passions. Meanwhile, Sheri Alcordo is a Grade 5 teacher at Driftwood Public School who tries to teach a lesson in everything she does, keeping the students actively engaged. She works with the diversity of backgrounds her students have and teaches them respectfulness, resourcefulness, and inner strength. What I get from Alcordo is that we as teacher do not just teach the subjects of the curriculum. We teach the students how to get along with others and become dignified individuals of society, working to develop student’s personality, behaviour, and attitudes along with their knowledge.

My name’s Lia. I was born and raised in Sudbury but spent plenty of time with my family in the small town of Killarney catching frogs and rock hopping.

I hadn’t truly realized why I wanted to be a teacher until this past year. When deciding in high school, teaching simply felt right. This past year I reflected on how I’ve always enjoyed helping people learn, watching them find new passions and experience the many “ah-ha” moments we have when trying to figure out that one tough concept and it finally clicks. I had also always put myself in the shoes of my teachers growing up, wondering what it would be like to be the person standing at the front of the class. I didn’t have the greatest teachers all of the time, nor did I have the best experiences in school but I hope to provide a fun, educational and enthusiastic class for my future students.

I believe that the qualities that define a great teacher are flexibility, compassion, resilience and humility. It’s important for teachers to be flexible in order to adjust to unpredictable situations and the instability of working with people, especially kids. We often talk about how every kid will require a different teaching style or an extra bit of help and this is where flexibility comes into play. We won’t always be able to stick perfectly to our lesson plans or execute our school days as predicted due to various unforeseen circumstances. Being able to both “roll with the punches” and learn from the experiences is another trait that makes a great teacher. I’ve heard of many new teachers struggling in their first years of teaching and subsequently deciding teaching isn’t for them. Or we’ve had a teacher who’s become crabby with how long they’ve been teaching. The best teachers are able to spring back from stressful situations and continue on despite problems. Another trait that makes a great teacher is compassion and humility. I think it’s important to ‘level’ with your students. Sure, we as teachers need to hold some authority when it matters but respect is a two way street and in my minimal experience with students during placement I discovered you catch more flies with honey than you do vinegar. My favourite teachers have been the ones to admit to procrastinating, they acknowledged that the life of a student isn’t easy and were relatable but still encouraged you to do your best as they understood student struggles as well. 

One of the teachers highlighted in the OCT publications was Crispin Duenas (June 2021). Duenas is an olympian in archery and retells his experience teaching during covid. He expressed the importance of flexibility in the classroom, caring for student mental health (a passion of mine) and his opinion of teachers finding something to step away from the classroom and cater to their own mental health needs when at home. I am awfully prone to burnout. As my mom likes to say “I fill my plate too much” and don’t leave enough time for myself as a consequence. This is something I believe is important for all teachers to take note of in order to continue being a positive influence in the classroom.

Another of the teachers that stood out to me in the “Professionally Speaking” articles was Dwayne Campbell (March 2011 edition), a teacher from London Ontario who taught Amber Marshall, the main actress in a popular Canadian TV series. Campbell speaks of his ability to enthuse students in his classes and inspire them to continue using their knowledge learned from his environmental classes outside of school. He expresses the importance of explaining the relevance of what we are teaching our students as they often respond better to knowing the purpose or application of their education. I remember being frustrated in a few of my own subjects in highschool and often complaining that I would never use the information after school. Campbell also had a quote that really resonated with me.

“Being honest with the students is important. When you get their trust, you get their respect. And once you get their respect, the work they will do for you is amazing.”

I believe an excellent teacher is someone who constantly reflects on how they can grow within the profession, and how they can be better for their students, by ensuring an inclusive and engaging classroom. An excellent teacher must also be kind, patient, compassionate and one who caters to their students' needs. Other important skills would be effective classroom management and adaptability.

A teacher who stood out to me, who was mentioned in Professionally Speaking, was Pareen Gill. She was praised for the way she empowers her students. This accolade was given from one of her former students, who later became a teacher. She believes students should be nurtured in all ways, and should be instilled with confidence. Another teacher who inspired me was Lynn Wilkins. She was also mentioned for creating a safe space for students to fail. I thought this was inspiring and empowering as in life we learn from our mistakes and allowing a safe space for students to benefit from their trials is another characteristic of an excellent teacher. They have inspired me to follow in their footsteps so that my students can also achieve their potential.

Hi! I am Addison Elliott, twenty-one years old and from Sudbury, Ontario, specifically the town of Lively. I am in my fourth year of Concurrent Education pursuing a degree in Sport and Physical Education. Ever since I could remember, I have always thought about being a teacher. Throughout my school years, I was surrounded by many excellent teachers who inspired me to become one. There are many teachers that I have had in my life who have left an impact on my life, and one day, I hope to do the same for my future students. These teachers and role models have shown me many great life lessons, especially regarding leadership. Whether leading in class, on the court or field, or in figure skating, I have always had the opportunity to practice my leadership skills, which I greatly value. Another reason why I want to become a teacher is because I love working with kids. Growing up, I was a figure skater, and we used to be able to volunteer at my club to teach 4-12 year old kids how to skate. I used to love these nights because I could combine my passions. I continued to grab any opportunity I could to teach kids, whether volunteering as a reading buddy in elementary school or working in the local daycare throughout high school. During my university experience, I worked as an Environmental Outdoor Education Technician at Lake Laurentian Conservation Area, doing onsite and schoolyard programming for schools from grades JK-12. I am so excited to put all this experience and my passion into my future of teaching. 

Reflect on the Attributes of a Great Teacher 

Many attributes contribute to making a teacher great, but a few stand out to me the most. The first quality essential for an excellent teacher is compassion. Teachers need to be empathetic, which allows them to build strong connections with each student. Students have different learning styles, backgrounds, and challenges, so an empathetic approach is crucial for creating a positive learning environment.

Another significant attribute is a positive attitude. This helps foster a healthy and safe atmosphere in the classroom. It is important for students to feel comfortable so that they can be themselves and gain confidence in their ability to learn. When students feel at ease, they are more willing to explore new ideas without fear.

The final quality that teachers should have is the ability to care for their students. I have always respected this quality the most in all my past teachers. Each of them took the time to get to know me as a person, not just as a student. This impacted me significantly, as it showed that they genuinely cared and that I could approach them if I needed anything. 

Highlight Role Models From Professionally Speaking

Teacher #1: Samantha Leonard 

Samantha is the first teacher who inspired me because she values one of the above mentioned attributes. She creates a safe and comfortable classroom environment for her students, allowing them to feel safe and to be themselves, not feel like they have to hide. She is the type of teacher not to force her students to speak out loud if they are not confident in their answer

Teacher #2: Lynn Wilkins 

Lynn was another teacher who stood out to me because she made her classroom a comfortable learning environment so her students could feel confident and always try, no matter what. She focused on allowing students to always try their best and embrace failure, as she believes it is a stepping stone to success. Significantly, she reassured her students, but some students can hold back from answering questions for fear of getting it wrong. Not only is this a valuable life lesson, but it also helps the students become more brave, which is an excellent quality.

In terms of the qualities that good teachers possess, one of these would be creating an environment where the students can feel comfortable talking to the teacher. Not just about the subject being taught, but also about problems they may be having. This is very important because you never know what issues students may be facing, and school might be the only place where they can speak freely. Another quality that good teachers possess is that they are able to effectively teach the content in a way that the students will actually understand. This would essentially see the teacher not just reading off of slideshows or have the students read every day, but instead actively engage with them and diversify the content being taught. This could include playing videos/films for the class that incorporates the subject and then have them complete an assignment based on what they watched. There are many more examples I could list, but the main point here is that the teacher should diversify content so it stays fresh and everyone has a chance to learn.

One of the teachers featured in the Professionally Speaking archive that inspired me was Rebecca Chahine from 2019. Some of her accomplishments include having her students bring buckets of water from a creek to the school in order to teach them about how important having water availability is, raising hundreds of dollars for water charities, and, "was named central Canada’s 2018 Energy Educator of the Year by Canadian Geographic Education." She serves as a role model for my teaching aspirations because she is not only teaching her students about important issues, but actively getting them involved which will help them learn more practically.

Another teacher featured in the Professionally Speaking archive that inspired me is Tom Deer from 2017. He was determined to teach about his own language, and some of his accomplishments include being, "awarded a 2016 Guiding the Journey: Indigenous Educator Award for his innovative teaching of language, culture and traditions," as well as incorporating his Mohawk and Cayuga heritage into many of his lessons, and even making lesson plans and curriculum that had translations for his languages. He is inspiring to me because of how he incorporated his heritage and language into his lessons, as well as how he highlighted the importance of teaching indigenous content.

My name is Maggie Chapman and I am from Little Current, a small town located on Manitoulin Island, Ontario. I didn’t fully know that I wanted to be a teacher until grade 11 when I took a peer teaching course in high school. My original ideas were to either be a nurse, social worker, or to do something in the humanities field. I always had so much respect for my teachers and knew that they were trying to help however they could. My mom is an elementary school principal, so education and schooling has always been a big part of my life. She had told me stories about how when she was a teacher and just starting out that she loved it! She started out in high school, but soon got her AQs for elementary school because that’s where her passion lied. She loved helping the younger kids and seeing them grow. She was never my principal growing up, but a good friend of hers was (he was my principal all throughout elementary school and high school). When I knew that I wanted to be a teacher, I had a bit of an “aha” moment! I remember talking to my friends about how so many great teachers had influenced me and my life and that I wasn’t sure that I’d be where I am today without them. So many of them were dedicated to helping me learn different skills and subjects, especially math (a subject I tend to really struggle in). I want to help students feel seen and heard, like my teachers had helped me with. I want to help them learn and grow into the amazing people I know they will be someday. I want to help them out as much as I can and push them to go to greater heights. A special shoutout to Peter Nelson, my high school communications and technology teacher. He was passionate, intelligent, but most of all, kind. He helped me in more ways than I could ever imagine and always pushed me to strive for greater lengths in regards to my goals and passions. 

Every teacher is different, whether that be in their classroom, teaching styles, and personalities. However, there are some common characteristics that I think a teacher should have. I think that an excellent teacher should be empathetic and have a good amount of emotional intelligence. This can help teachers recognize students’ learning challenges, individual needs, and emotional states. Being able to adapt is also a good characteristic. In a classroom, things are always going on and you never know what might happen. It’s good to be flexible and have an open mind when talking and teaching students. Passion and having the ability to inspire sounds like it may be tough, but if you’re passionate about a certain subject or what you are teaching kids, students will easily catch on and quickly grow a liking (not all, but most). It shows students that it’s okay to like learning and that it’s okay to have interests! Who knows! Maybe those interests would become their future careers?

While reading Professionally Speaking, two individuals instantly spoke out to me: John Paul Kane and Carolyne Prevost. Both incredibly strong, talented, and passionate people, who just happen to be educators. Kane, along with his friend Kaleb Robertson (aka Fluffy Souffle) created “Fay and Fluffy’s Storytime”. They advocated for children who came from different homes, places, countries, and families and always did their best to make these children and their families happy. They told stories to children and their families while reading in full drag! The kids loved their costumes and always had an amazing time with them. Having queer representation like this is something that is so important because they show the diversity that life has to offer and makes everyone feel included. Carolyne Pevost is another amazing educator, being a national level Crossfit Competitor. Having representation like her in media, as well as schools, can serve as a HUGE inspiration to children and students alike, especially young women. It helps empower them and shows students that you can do anything you want, as long as you put your mind to it, you're passionate about it, and most importantly, you enjoy it. Both of these educators are amazing people and we need to see more advocacy and educators like them!

I decided I wanted to become a teacher when I was in high school, specifically when I discovered through tutoring friends that I get great intrinsic satisfaction when I am able to help someone finally understand a topic or concept they previously struggled with. I also decided to become a teacher in the hopes of making life easier for future students like me: “high functioning”  (an outdated term in every sense but formal diagnostic labels, but far more well known than the more accurate term “low support needs”) neurodivergent students who fall under the radar of the largely over-extended special education services in public high schools as their struggles impact their own learning rather than interfering to with their peers learning. I am a late-diagnosed autistic adult who despite receiving a diagnosis of severe inattentive ADD (ADHD lacking the hyperactivity trait) at age eleven was repeatedly passed over by my special education departments as I was not posing a threat to my peers’ learning environment as I was far more prone to spontaneous disassociation than causing disruptions that impacted others.

Great teachers are accommodating, encouraging, invested in both the topic they teach and the success of their students, and reliable. It is paramount that students are able to trust you as a teacher to meet their needs, encourage their success and fulfill commitments made to them consistently. Investment in the topic matter is also essential as it is my firm belief that students can tell if the enthusiasm shown when discussing a lesson topic is faked and that those observations play a non-unimportant role in how lessons are both received in the moment and retained over time.  

The two teachers from the Professionally Speaking publication that inspire me are Sheri Alcordo and Catherine MacDonald. Sheri Alcordo was the recipient of the Premier’s Awards for Teaching Excellence back in 2012 in large part thanks to her dedication to differentiated teaching and accommodating a large array of learning styles in her classroom. She inspires me as a teacher because it is my goal to provide all my students with instruction and education suited to their learning needs. Catherine MacDonald introduced a new and very well received archaeology program for middle school aged students in Durham, Ontario. She inspires me as a teacher because she took a lifelong passion (her interest in archaeology reportedly started at age six) and turned it into an opportunity to introduce others to the field of study she is so invested in. I hope some day to have the opportunity to teach a specialized Fashion History class, as that is my equivalent subject of focus and interest.