We all have them — the teachers who remain forever in our memories because they took the time to nurture us.

Sometimes it was because they listened; sometimes it was because they encouraged; sometimes it was just because they liked what they were teaching so much that it was infectious.

So when I read this article on Information Age Education, discussing the characteristics that make the ideal teacher, it made me think about those teachers who meant something to me and whose names I still recall lo these many years later:

• Mrs. Schmidt: High school English. I had her in the ninth grade, but she taught other grades and also was the advisor on the literary magazine, which I co-edited my senior year. Whenever I was back on Long Island as a college student and then — gasp! — a bona fide grownup, I stopped in to see her. She was always happy to see me and thrilled in my successes, such as they were. She was one of those teachers who loved literature and loved discussing it with students who loved it, too.

• Mrs. Rosenthal: High school social studies. I had her junior year. The woman taught me how to write a term paper, a skill that got me through college. She also made me realize I loved history. Both my parents were history teachers, so like any self-respecting teenager, I decided I didn’t like history. I was such a rebel that I was going to major in POLITICAL SCIENCE!!! Gasp. But seriously, her love of the subject and skills as a teacher even managed to break through to this sullen youth.

• Mr. Toomey: High school English. 10th grade. Among other things, we studied the Bible as literature, a fascinating exercise. I was full out in my rebellious stage then, and he recognized it well, being a child of the ‘60s. He never let me get away with anything, but in his own way let me know he understood what I was going through.

Of all the teachers I had, these are the three who come to mind. Elementary school memories are kind of hazy, but I do remember Mrs. Jordan in kindergarten and Miss Doctor in second grade were really nice ladies. They must have done something right.

Here are some of the characteristics that Information Age Education spelled out:

· A thorough knowledge of and love for the subject.

· A love of and a tolerance for children.

· A tireless attitude when it comes to helping children who are at the bottom of the class.

· A good sense of humor that helps to take the occasional prank in his/her stride and the ability to turn a blind eye to minor infractions.

Associated Press photo/Brendan Hoffman