“This is Why” - What Makes a Great Teacher?

I continue to remain in awe that the Cooper family named this school in honor of Mr. Cooper’s favorite teacher. And while I will never get the chance to ask Mr. Cooper specifically what it was that made J.J. Darlington special in his eyes, the history of the school tells its own story.  

The qualities that make up a great teacher are timeless and universal. They are qualities forged through dedication, curiosity, relationshipsand a commitment to a lifetime of learning. In a quote from the 1937 Jabberwokk, J.J. Darlington is remembered this way:

“Joseph J. Darlington had exemplified for Mr. Cooper what he had considered to be the ideal relationship between teacher and pupil, wherein mutual endeavor, interest, and respect was of such a nature as to foster the fullest co-operation, not only in matters of intellectual achievement, but also for the development of character and manhood...“

When asked, Darlington students today say much the same. Words to describe “favorite” teachers include “consistent, tough, helpful, high expectations, compassionate, open, puts learning in the hands of the student, wants to see us improve, cares about us as individuals.”

Stories from alums include similar sentiments and anecdotes...

“He would enter the classroom and we were jumping to attention.”

“They have challenged me to be a better version of myself, holding me to the belief that anything can be achieved with hard work and a devotion to the greater good.” 

“I had a fine education at Darlington, with the writing training perhaps the most important thing I took from there, as writing has been a critical part of my professional life and advancement through the years.”

“They really do care about all of their students and have no problem spending long hours (even outside of school) to ensure that their students are prepared for the next challenge, test, or class that comes their way.”

All great teachers realize that, above all, students come first. They combine passion for their work, whether it be analyzing "The Great Gatsby" or teaching a child to read, with a love of children and and a desire to help their growth and development.

I know that we have all benefited from special teachers in our lives. I certainly have, and when I reflect on those people I realize that they, too, share these special qualities.  

In closing, I also remember that one of the gifts we must give the world is the responsibility that we are all teachers. How do we model “great teaching?” Do we have high expectations? Do we have passion? Do we think first about those we teach and learn with? 

For inspiration, I look to the plaque honoring one of Darlington’s great “teachers,”  Mr. Shem Thomas. Read the inscription on the plaque at the bottom of the hill next to Silver Lake and you will know what it means to be a great teacher!