An educator's ability to teach effectively is directly proportionate to their ability to control their classroom -- this is one thing I am absolutely certain of. It does not matter whether you are a new teacher, or a seasoned educator, the fact remains that your successes or failures are ultimately dependent on your talent for maintaining control of your class. It is especially true of middle school and high school students who are at hitting critical developmental milestones that will have a profound effect on how they interact as adults. This is not to say that there aren't external factors, but when it comes down to whether or not a teacher is at their best, it all starts with the teachers themselves.

Here are 10 simple steps to becoming a great teacher and helping your students achieve personal success:

1. Get Organized -- If you are a mess, your students will be too. Learning requires focus, time management and an educational plan. How do you think a student views you when he sees you searching last minute for the day's lesson plan? Show your students that success is not built on "winging it". Set a good example and you will get better results.

2. Be Creative - If you are taking a lesson plan straight from the book, the students will lose interest. A truly great teacher knows how to creatively convey the message in a way that will relate to the realities and current events of his/her students.

3. Remove Distractions - Sometimes this means removing a student for a little private chat, sometimes you have to remove them entirely, and other times it is as simple as closing the blinds on the windows or shutting the classroom door. Make a habit of observing external and internal distractions and adjust accordingly. Every student deserves to have a positive learning environment.

4. Set Ground Rules - Setting ground rules does not mean you have to be a dictator, it just means that you have to be a good manager. Post the rules on a wall as a reminder to students who have a hard time with discipline -- or even as a reminder for yourself. Focus on good management and try not to deviate from your rules. It may sound harsh, but structure is the foundation for optimal growth and development. I realize some of you want to be "cool" and "connect" with your students, but this is not the place to do that. You are still their teacher, first and foremost. You can connect within the structure of your class in other ways.

5. Be a Good Manager - Being a good manager is not just making sure the rules and procedures are being followed. It also means you know how to delegate responsibilities and when to make exceptions. Providing your students with small responsibilities and allowing them to help you establishes trust and forms a great student/teacher rapport.

6. Be Consistent -- Consistency goes hand in hand with sticking to your ground rules. An "A" should be an "A" and should be a "F" should be a "F". You make the rules, you keep them. If you feel there are extenuating circumstances, it is your right to stretch the boundaries you have created so long as they apply to everyone.

7. Get Personal - Find out what individuals are interested in, not just what is popular. Everyone wants to feel important. Take the time to enjoy a little one-on-one conversation with each student just before or after class. This will help you to gage your students interests and allow you to find some common ground. Let them know that they matter. It only takes a minute to connect, and it can have a profound effect on how they view you.

8. Respect Your Students -- Always remember that for every rule that is made, it is also made to be broken. Whether a student breaks a rule or not, never humiliate them in class. If student is a real problem, take the time to address them individually.

9. Recognize Information Overload -- Every now and then your students may shut down. Even when you are one of the "best of the best" in your classroom, this inevitably leads to chaos. Have an alternative lesson for these days. Make it stress free, have a little fun and take a break. Start fresh next time.

10. Don't Be Afraid of Your Principal - The principal of your school is supposed to be your ally. If you feel like you are hitting a roadblock, don't be afraid to ask your principal or a seasoned teacher for ideas. You don't have to spend a lot of time on it, and it does not mean you need a babysitter. It simply means you are recognizing the importance of being your best and being prepared. It can be as simple as asking what website or resource they recommend for solving your particular challenge. Your success is a great reflection on how well they themselves are doing their jobs. They are more willing to lend a hand than you think.

There is always so much to learn, but if you stick to these 10 basic steps you will be well on your way to making a positive and permanent impression on your students' lives.

C.D. Watson is an entrepreneur and has written several hundred articles in her areas of expertise and life experience. She is committed to conquering all challenges with enthusiasm and maintaining the balance needed to lead a happy and healthy life.

Visit http://www.everykindofmom.com and see how life, love and insanity can all come together for you, too!