Description
Book SynopsisThe Way of the Teacher is the first comprehensive resource to support the full range of personal qualities needed for teachers to create safe and caring classrooms and develop an authentic presence acting with compassion, insight, and integrity. Research has confirmed that personal growth is the foundation for professional fulfillment and increases student achievement yet few books exist which support teachers in this holistic way. This book is suitable for a broad audience including new and experienced teachers, pre-service teachers and university and college faculty in education programs as well teacher book clubs and school staffs.
Trade ReviewIn The Way of the Teacher: A Path for Personal Growth and Professional Fulfillment Finney and Thurgood Sagal present ancient wisdom, engaging questions, timely practices, and provocative thoughts for creative and critical reflection. Their book is a gift that has been composed with the heart’s generous vocation, calling out to readers to follow the path that leads to transformation and wholeness. * in education journal *
This one-of-a-kind, long overdue, uplifting and passionate book is a must read for teachers who are interested in developing all dimensions of their selfhood – their spiritual dimension in particular. Easy-to-read, well organized and engrossing, this book provides teachers with an abundance of practical ways of developing their spirituality and integrating it with their minds and bodies, while simultaneously embodying it in their classrooms and thereby enriching the lives of their students. -- Gary Hunter, author of “Life Expects: Educating Students to Lead Fulfilling Lives”
Finney and Thurgood Sagal capture the deep intellectual pleasure in the work of teaching; honouring the pedagogical soundness of the work it requires, and provide hope and restorative energy uplifting teachers to become fully present to themselves through the work of teaching. -- Sharon Friesen, Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary
Finney and Sagal invite vulnerability and mindfulness through their sharing of experiences to empower us to reflect and connect with ourselves, students, colleagues, and students’ families. They weave research, practice, and reflection into effortless reading so that we as teachers can be mindful of our work and relationships. The Way of the Teacher offers supports to become a more reflective practitioner so that we are renewed, strengthened, and empowered to share our learning with our students so they in turn benefit. -- Jennifer Hindman, PhD, education producer and author of “Effective Teacher Interviews”
It has been said, “we teach who we are,” yet many teachers faced with the challenges of contemporary education lose sight of their authentic selves and the gifts they bring to their classroom. This book offers gentle reminders for teachers to connect with their creativity, compassion, and wisdom through accessible practices that act as a compass directing teachers home to their own hearts. -- Jane E. Dalton, Ph.D. is director and assistant professor of Art, Maine College of Art and co-author of “The Compassionate Classroom: Lessons that Nurture Wisdom and Empathy”
