1. Top Ten Skills Needed for Teaching Success in Urban Schools Heather Sparks, NBCT Taft Middle School Oklahoma City Public Schools August 11, 2008

2. 10. Empathy Get to know your students and the lives they live. Show interest in student activities. “Even on your worst day, you’re a student’s best hope.” ~Larry Bell

3. 9. Respect Show the respect you expect. Find ways to connect to students. Learn to say phrases in each student’s home language.

4. 8. Patience “Students that are hardest to love, need your love the most.” Know when to “reschedule” students Keep your “power” in perspective.

5. 7. Flexibility Be willing and able to make changes. Learn to compromise. Create win-win situations.

6. 6. Collegiality Know your strengths and those of your colleagues. Find common ground and work together. ALWAYS befriend the school secretary, custodian and other “power players.”

7. 5. Creativity Don’t be married to one specific teaching strategy or textbook. Explore resources regularly. Always be on the lookout for great lessons.

8. 4. Problem Solving Have a solution before you complain about a problem. Ask advice of other professionals. Involve families.

9. 3. Showmanship Create several “best of show” lessons that you can pull out of your hat! Attend professional development opportunities often to build your repertoire. Watch and steal from the best! (a.k.a. “professional collaboration”)

10. 2. Sense of Humor Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself. Create class jokes that include everyone. Learn jokes appropriate for your field or subject.

11. And the number one skill needed for successful teaching in urban settings…

12. Self-Care Know your needs and make sure they are met. As much as possible, leave school at school. Adopt a hobby and give yourself permission to enjoy it!