9781412905985

"This is a beautiful book. It should be read by every beginning teacher, and it will lift the hearts of older teachers, too." Nel Noddings Author of Happiness and Education "Reading each chapter brought me back to why I chose this profession and why I must stay. . . . The book can easily be read in one sitting although I recommend using each chapter as topics for reflection and introspection. This is one of those books I plan to keep and reread each time the going gets tough." Marta Cruz-Janzen, Associate Professor Florida Atlantic University "Provides a 21st-century book that is a 'model' of what we would like education to be'”a conversation and a journey. . . . It is well written, clever, engaging, entertaining, moving, and meaningful." Thomas Giblin, Superintendent of Schools East Lansing Public Schools, MI "Short, to the point, and written in a new and entertaining format that lends itself to extended, in-depth discussions among professionals. . . . The dialogue format and reflective nature create a genuine and authentic foundation on which to discuss the complex art of teaching." Sue Braun, Principal Rousseau Elementary School, Lincoln, NE "An easy read, but very powerful in its 'conversation' style. . . . It will stimulate rich discussion among its readers." Karyn Wright, Director, K-12 Teacher Development Clark County School District, Las Vegas, NV Reflect, re-examine, and refine what you know to be the elements of good teaching! Let the author of Conversations About Being a Teacher take you on an introspective journey that follows a young woman about to begin her high school teaching career and the university professor from whom she seeks expert guidance. Their insightful discussions can inspire your own reflections on such topics as: Challenging beginning teachers to become the teachers they want to be Reminding veteran teachers why they were first compelled to teach Mission and vision, expectations, caring, commitment, respect, observation, cultural awareness, balance, team building, growth, and knowledge Teaching models are presented throughout the book with suggestions from the author for additional resources. Highly readable and engaging, Conversations About Being a Teacher helps all educators fine-tune their expectations for the teaching profession.