In 1917 Elmer Redmond, superintendent of schools in Port Chester, New York, published this twelve-point portrait of the ideal teacher in the American School Board Journal:

Voice: should be well modulated, clear and winning with correct pronunciation and wide vocabulary.

Manners: should be that of cultured ladies and gentlemen.

Conduct: should possess a character indicated. by irreproachable actions reflecting high ideals and purposes.

Work habits: should be systematic, accurate, prompt, cheerful and masterful in thought and action.

Self Control: should reflect ease, poise and a judicial and thoughtful attitude.

Inspirational Force: should be strong in encouraging, thought-provoking, ambition-arousing, growth-promoting, and success-inspiring action.

Leadership: should be evident in all actions.

Executive Ability: should display initiative and resourceful action.

Cooperation: should be loyal, frank, kind, sympathetic, and helpful.

Common Sense: should display this in refusing to gossip, in conforming to the customs of the community...