The chapters in this volume reflect the impact that teachers have on their students when “they stand in front of the classroom” and the effect their performance and characteristics has on children such as teachers' gender, preparation, certification, knowledge, beliefs, cognitive style, creativity, accountability, and actions on the part of teachers. They describe research related to the preparation and certification or credentialing of early childhood practitioners, the issues regarding the nature of early childhood practice, and the needs of the field as it prepares for the future.