ABSTRACT
Teachers often get a reputation for being perfectionists. This persona will only place a larger distance between you and your students. The education system is already structured to put the teacher at the head of the room and have complete autonomy over their classroom rules. Students naturally will rebel against authority, especially secondary students. Maintaining a balance of structure, leadership, and humility is the best strategy. Students should do well because they do not want to disappoint you – not because they are intimidated by you. There will be a moment when you are knocked off your pedestal in front of your students. If you think you are better than them, this will become a moment for them to seize power over you. However, if you make it clear that you are not perfect, this becomes a teachable moment, or even a funny moment. Either way, it does not become a sign of weakness. Being human is the best way to lead.
