TWELVE VIRTUES OF A GOOD TEACHER

Professional literature for teachers on ""how to teach"" is plenteous. But knowing technique is not enough for the good teacher. The qualities which distinguish the good from the poor or mediocre teacher spring from the total personality of the individual. An experienced teacher here supplies his fellow teachers with a searching ""recollection"" on the virtues which make a good teacher as enunciated and elaborated by that great Christian teacher of all time -- St. John Baptist de La Salie, founder of the Christian Brothers of which the author is a member. The adaptations to present day needs are presented in the framework of this tradition but in a way which demonstrates the vitality of the pioneering spirit. The virtues dealt with are conduct, seriousness, silence, humility, prudence, wisdom, patience, zeal, piety, generosity, justice, kindness and firmness. It is evident that the vital role of the teacher is becoming much more widely recognized in our present civilization. Consequently, this book for teachers --currently so assigned, former teachers, and those who intend to teach, -- will be a source for strengthening flagging enthusiasm which a good teacher must possess. Here is indeed a valuable self-examination for all teachers regardless of affiliations with private or public education.