Do you like your teachers?

Are you bored in class?

Do you feel in control of your learning?

The relationship between students and their teachers is a special one, bound by a mutual desire for new knowledge. However, with different students having different educational needs, and with different teachers having different styles of teaching, the relationship is rarely ideal.

Teachers often find themselves with uninterested students lacking any focus. Students are often stuck with teachers lacking enthusiasm or the ability to inspire. Education is in a constant flow of progress, but when it comes to constructing classrooms that benefit everyone, we have a long way to go. What’s the first step? Hearing everyone out.

When asked what they value in a teacher, Miami High’s students had varying responses. Senior Tommy Collins wants a teacher who’s firm, accountable, and wise. “I dislike immature behavior, such as dishonesty and laziness,” he said.

“Before I met Ms. Fernandini, said junior Michelle Sanchez, ”I didn’t care about school. She completely changed my view on life and learning.”

Junior Juliana Morales values teachers who are understanding, engaged, and open-minded. “It sucks having a teacher who isn’t passionate,” she said.

Sophomore Alicia Perez said, “Teachers should be fun, because if they’re jaded, then the negative energy will spread through the classroom.”

“It’s important for the teacher to be active,” said junior Hafisa Heyaime.  “People fall asleep if all they do is play videos.”

With teachers having such a vital influence on students’ learning, what can they do about a teacher who instructs poorly? Principal Mr. Valdes said that the most important thing is communication. “Our door is always open. We want to help all students succeed, and if we receive complaints, then we will address them to the teacher,” he said.

Teachers also have their own preferences in students. Freshman world history and AP Human Geography teacher Ms. Albornoz said, “Academic success has more to do with motivation than intelligence; any kid who’s excited to learn will get something out of the class.”

Geometry teacher Mr. Strickland said, “It’s important for the student not to be afraid of making mistakes. Mistakes are one of the best teachers.”

U.S. history and macroeconomics teacher Mr. Rosales values responsibility, work ethic, and respect in his students.

Academic growth is not only dependent on one’s teacher, however. Senior Haydee Avila said, “It really is a partnership, and the students have to hold their weight. Most teachers want to teach, so it’s up to the students to put in effort.”

Similarly, senior Bryan Sanchez said, “You can have the best teacher in the world, but it’s all on you to apply what you learned.”