It is all about the actual text. (Not the history, not the models of the Globe Theatre, not how others feel about the text).

Great Literature is the basis for what I teach.  Though everything doesn't have to be Toni Morrison - the majority of the texts are accepted, universally praised Literature.

Great Literature is diverse - from Beowulf to Shakespeare to Song of Solomon to The House on Mango Street - there is a lot of Great Literature out there.

When something was written is not as important as what it is.  Students can identify with Hal from Henry IV Part 1 - and may be unable to identify with a character in a contemporary piece.

Homework is integral to learning.  The greatest learning occurs when a student is alone with a book or pen and paper.

High Expectations are the most important tool in the classroom.

Students need to be quizzed on every or nearly every reading.  If they are not given content (not thinking) quizzes - the majority of them will not read.

Teachers need to read everything that they assign to their students (each and every time).

I have never "winged" a class - preparation and thought is integral to every lesson and shows respect for the students and their time.

Every student needs to be treated kindly and fairly.