An effective educator makes teaching and learning a pleasure. The Super Teacher Dozen Don’s is a reminder to all teachers of the 12 things you should never do in the classroom.

1. Don’t yell at kids across the room; it will shame them and increase the frequency of the behavior you are highlighting. Walk and whisper softly to the child.

2. Do not lose sight of your original mission: to make a difference in the lives of children.

3. Don’t hold a grudge, even children need forgiveness; clean the board frequently and thoroughly.

4. Do not ignore the small steps that children take; together they become happy days.

5. Don’t call attention to behaviors; positive or negative. Instead, honor character.

6. Don’t bring your bad day into the classroom; park it at the door.

7. Don’t look at students as “them.” See each one as someone’s precious bundle of joy being lent to you for the day.

8. Do not deny yourself the joy that laughter brings. Laugh at yourself, at your world, and with your kids, every day.

9. Do not forget that you were once a child, full of wonder and curiosity. Look deeply and maybe you will resurrect your inner child and then you will better understand your best teachers; the children.

10. Do not praise; it is demanding, manipulative and creates dependency. It specifically and genuinely encourages thus creating independent learners.

11. Don’t envy your neighbors’ bulletin boards and decorations. Admire her enthusiasm, insight and empowerment of children.

12. Don’t forget to celebrate the hero in you, that there is life outside the classroom, and that by investing in knowing and nurturing yourself, you are investing in the future of every student you teach.

While you refrain from the “Don’ts” above, there is one “Do” that you do absolutely a lot. Always remember that there are no greater heroes in our society than teachers. As a Super Teacher, it is your duty to make teaching and learning a pleasure.