"You might be impressed if your child's teacher has a Master's degree from Harvard's School of Education. But researchers say think again. The things we think typically matter to make an effective teacher- how many years experience, how many degrees, whether you have a degree in this or that-don't seem to matter much at all.

What really matters is what teachers do with children in the classroom or within a tutoring environment. How do they interact, how do the engage, how do they deliver instruction? Do they manage time well, do they manage the lesson well, do they manage the child's behavior well?

A good teacher or tutor should know her subject well. She should stretch a child's thinking, reasoning and problem-solving. A good teacher does not just focus on yes or no answers she extends the lesson so the child has deeper conceptual understanding of what is being taught. She leads that child to that "AH HA" moment.

I set big visions and goals for my students outcomes. I then invest my students and motivate my students in that vision. And I invest anyone else involved with the child in the vision- that means you Mom and Dad. I plan relentlessly. And if the plan isn't working and the child isn't learning, I am not afraid to start over. I am all of these things in addition to being patient, consistent, creative with a good sense of humor. Learning can be fun, and if your child loves and enjoys when I show up they will work hard for me.

I am the quirky teacher down the hall who may drive my colleagues crazy but I just might be perfect for your child.

I am now retired and currently a substitute teacher for the Reading School District.

BS Degree Special Education

Bloomsberg University

23 years teaching experience Emotional Support Middle School

Currently retired and substituting with the Reading School District" less...