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The difference between a good educator and a great…

“The difference between a good educator and a great educator is that the former figures out how to work within the constraints of traditional policies and accepted assumptions, whereas the latter figures out how to change whatever gets in the way of doing right by kids. 'But we've always...', 'But…” quote by Alfie Kohn
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“The difference between a good educator and a great educator is that the former figures out how to work within the constraints of traditional policies and accepted assumptions, whereas the latter figures out how to change whatever gets in the way of doing right by kids. 'But we've always...', 'But the parents will never...', 'But we can't be the only school in the area to...' - all such protestations are unpersuasive to great educators. If research and common sense argue for doing things differently, then the question isn't whether to change course but how to make it happen.”

Alfie Kohn

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Great educators reshape systems, not just work within them, to prioritize children's needs.

In simple terms: Great teachers change the system for kids.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for policies that truly benefit students.

Themes

education leadership reform

Mood

determined hopeful

Type

educational activist

When to use this quote

  • school board meetings
  • teacher workshops
  • community forums

Key Concepts

systemic change child-centered learning policy advocacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What constraints hinder innovative teaching?
  • How can you mobilize support for change?
A Different Perspective

Changing entrenched policies can be slow and met with resistance.

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