I learned that it's important to deconstruct the three key roles we play as educators: Model, Manager, Motivator. In being a model, we show our students the standard to strive for, whether it's in our appearance, language, work ethic or demeanor. We can also take away from what was modeled to us when we were once students (what attributes do we wish to pull from, and which would we like to stay away from). In being the manager, we must learn to take command of the classroom, but balance it with being in partnership with our students so they feel at ease to ask questions, and therefore engage fully in the learning process. If we are only interested in showing them how smart we are, and running a militant type environment, we will be creating a classroom that will be much less conducive to engaged learning. We can be all at once calm and approachable, and also in total control of the classroom in which we teach. In being the motivator, we strive to strike the balance of remaining the teacher, the mentor, and steadfast professional, while showing them we care about them as individuals and are taking a vested interest in their education. This takes time and a lot of practice. But it's possible to care and coach with professional boundaries.
