Quote from the Book, The Superior Educator
A Calm and Assertive Approach to Classroom Management and Large Group Motivation, Copyright © November 20^th, 2008, Stephen T. McClard

Eighteen years of teaching have taught me one very clear lesson:  experience and emotion drives all behavior, good or bad.  Because of this, I can only control a certain percentage of circumstances based on my own experiences.  These circumstances are further restricted by my abilities and emotional control as a leader.  If I can somehow enhance my experiences and exert greater ability and emotional control, I can, in turn, control more of my environment.

 The motivating force behind any behavior, good or bad, is found both outside my sphere of influence as a teacher and caused by my influence as a teacher.  Therefore, a child’s behavior is motivated by unique experiences and the influence of outside forces acting on self-interests.  A child’s ability to cope with these outside forces may be hampered by abuse, psychological disorders, developmental defects, psychological trauma, physical challenges, or neglected needs.  My influence may assist in minimizing the effects of these handicaps, but in the end, I am only one piece of the puzzle.

 Despite my best efforts, being connected to a child for one hour a day will not replace the needs that are left behind at home.  Good old-fashioned family values are the key ingredient to stimulate a child for success.  When these needs are not met, our educational process will leave children behind.