Teachers and professors have some of the largest impacts on younger generations. I respect educators. I understand the amount of time and dedication they put into their jobs and that sometimes it can get rough.

No matter how hard it gets, no matter how many accomplishments are achieved, no matter how many kids are helped, every teacher has that moment when the wrong words slip out of their mouth.

Hey, they’re humans just like the rest of us. I can forgive any teacher for the one or two slips- but what I don’t understand is the teacher who isn’t really there to help. I understand that being an educator can be a real struggle, but you as a teacher have to understand what kind of effect your words have on your students.

1. "You’ll never make it through college"

This statement will pretty much set your students up for failure. Students will feel there is no point in trying in your class because they’re destined to fail anyway.

2. "You should have gotten it when I explained it to the class"

No two students are the same. They all process things differently. Your job as teachers is to make sure that every student understands the content. Some students may require more explanation or instruction than others. New concepts can be especially difficult for students to grasp and may need to be retaught or revisited for several days. There is a good chance that multiple students need further explanation even if only one is speaking up.

3. "I don’t care what your excuse is"

Why not? Wouldn't you want someone to care what your excuse is? “Sorry officer, I was speeding because I’m on my way to the hospital…” Maybe they are offering you the key to unlocking their entire educational experience. Take 30 seconds to evaluate before you dismiss their explanations.

4. "You’re just not smart enough"

If they believe they are smart enough to do it, let them try! Sometimes the smartest kids perform the least because they are bored without challenges. You are what you believe you are, so let them believe in their abilities!

5. "I’m here just for the paycheck"

Always spoken in moments of frustration, these words are fatal. Whether intended or not, students hear it as “I don’t care about you.” There is the most damaging message a teacher can send.

6. "You have potential, but don't use it"

Your students are trying their best and this statement is like telling them that they’re not. It’s the equivalent of calling them lazy.

7. "You'll never amount to anything"

Not only is this an insult, but it is usually wrong. When I was young, I was told that I would never be a teacher. How many great people have been told this? How many of you have heard it?

8. "That’s a stupid question"

Teachers should always be willing to answer a student’s questions about a lesson or content they are learning in class. Students must always feel comfortable and be encouraged to ask questions. When a teacher refuses to answer a student’s question, they are discouraging the entire class to withhold questions. It is important because the students' questions can extend learning and provide teachers with direct feedback, which allows them to assess whether or not students understand the material. Remember, there are no stupid questions, only stupid answers.

So if you want your words to be remembered as words to live by- be sure to choose the phrases that build them up, inspires them to reach further, and allows them room to grow. Show them empathy and respect. Don’t just pass out worksheets or show a bunch of random videos so you can go back to using your phone. Teach them, and when you do, you will learn something too- you will learn the power of education.