In the next couple of weeks there will be a large number of teachers starting their first day as a teacher.  They will get advice from many experienced teachers and I have my own.  Most of this advice can also apply to teachers who have been teaching for awhile and this list does not include everything, just what is on top of my head at this moment.

• Don’t fear failure, we learn from our mistakes and it is ok to model this to students.
• Don’t be afraid to try new things, we only improve by moving forward and trying new things.
• Technology use should be based on sound pedagogy, the tech should never be the focus but should enable you to enact the pedagogy you want.
• Get connected to other educators using social media and you will find it easier than ever to be a life-long learner.  You can form some great professional relationships by getting connected through social media.  I have met many great educators through social media and then in person at conferences.
• Don’t rely just on the textbook as your main resource as a textbook is limited in what it can do.  Textbooks can be A resource but they should not be the ONLY resource.  You can even have your students share resources with each other to help others learn.
• Stay focused on student learning, we are here for the students and only for the students.  We should be striving for high levels of learning for ALL STUDENTS!

No matter what, teaching is a great career and you can impact so many students if you keep at it, even veteran teachers need to be reminded of this from time to time.