Humility

I think that a teachers' ability to demonstrate humility is one of the most important things they can do as role models.  In the field of science people realize that what they hypothesized to be true isn't.  Does this mean that they are bad scientists? If they work with diligence to find what the correct answer could be, the answer is no they are not bad scientists.  Likewise for students and teachers an ability to admit an error is incredibly important, given that you make efforts to improve on the mistake.  While a teacher does have to show confidence and mastery of content I think that there are great lessons for children to learn when a teacher admits that they do not know every answer.  This does not mean however that you do not need to prepare thoroughly for the lesson.  A big part of learning is learning from your mistakes.  Children need to understand that getting a wrong answer is not a complete failure.  Kids should feel comfortable answering questions in class without fear of being looked down upon if they happen to be wrong.  The best way to encourage this mentality is by humbly accepting it when you as a teacher make a mistake and then demonstrating how to be resilient.