Brett Potts
Kansas Teacher of the Year
Blue Valley North West High School, Overland Park, KS
Grades 10-12, Science

My teaching philosophy
I believe my students have a fundamental right to my best effort every day.

My philosophy in action
I am well prepared, flexible, friendly, caring and give it all I have, all the time.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
Helping kids get better.

The most critical issues facing educators today
The profession is in danger. We are losing and not replacing too many teachers. We need to step up efforts to recruit and retain excellent teachers.

Ways to resolve this issue
Tuition incentive programs, positive PR efforts and SUPPORT SUPPORT SUPPORT for teachers new to the profession. Teachers need to have ownership in decision making of the school.

One thought to inspire teachers to succeed
Remember that students may not ask for it nor are they likely to clearly thank you for it, but they are entitled to your best effort every day.

One lesson every student should learn
Knowing how to constructively work with others is more important than knowing information.

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