Philadelphia Principal Finds Teaching As Important As Learning
A teaching environment introduces new challenges every day, according to Chris Lehmann, founding principal of the Science Leadership Academy in Philadelphia. Lehmann finds that different personalities in a classroom create the most challenges.
What is the most challenging aspect of teaching in the classroom environment?
"I think the most challenging aspect of teaching in the classroom environment is understanding that there are 30 different personalities with many different interests, needs and challenges. We have to always work on seeing the students in front of us as real people who are there to learn with and from you."
Do you have any advice for people wanting to enter into the teaching profession?
"Know the difference between these two statements – 'I teach English' and 'I teach kids English.' The students should never be the implied object of their own education. This is not about us. It is about the students."
Are continuing education courses beneficial for teachers?
"Continuing education in all of its forms is important to teachers. If we expect students to be willing to learn from us, we have to present ourselves as learners as well."
Christina Thompson is a freelance travel writer living in Philadelphia. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.