Dana Dunnan knows the world of education inside and out. He grew up in a family of educators. He's taught chemistry and journalism to high school students. He's worked on teacher training program at Harvard, and worked on educational reform initiatives in Massachusetts.
Dunnan has now retired, but has written several books containing advice for those entering the profession. His latest is called Notes To A New Teacher.
Dunnan says it’s important to join a teacher’s union, for the protections that it can offer.
Dunnan recommends using the summer break to plan your teaching year, and pacing yourself for a marathon, not a sprint.
He says it’s crucial that new teachers understand they are not there to be friends with the students. They need direction and guidance, and they need someone to look up to.
