Q&A with Tony Stead

Q: What are the one or two keys to success you have learned in your research and authorship?

A: That in order to be a great teacher you first need to be a reflective learner. Whenever I'm in the classroom, I'm constantly reminded that listening to, and observing students is the key to providing focused instruction. We need to stop teaching students what we think they need, and start focusing on what we know they need through ongoing observations and assessments.

Q: With all of the attention being given by the press recently about the "state of education" in the United States, what do you see as the greatest challenge?

A: There are many challenges but for me the answer lies in providing quality ongoing professional development for all teachers. We must continue to better our knowledge on how best to teach students if we are to be effective.

Q: What is your favorite children's book and why?

A: What a difficult question! I love so many. I have 5 bookshelves at home filled with children's books. Given that Tomie de Paola is not only a good friend, but the Godfather to my son, I'd have to say Strega Nona.

Q: What do you read on your long trips back and forth from Australia?

A: I love reading magazines and trashy novels. It just goes to show that we all have eclectic tastes when it comes to reading. We should remind ourselves of this when providing reading materials for our students.