1)"The entire matter gets blown out of proportion because most teachers themselves so loathe tests. I don't - but most do."
I concur. Tests are a very useful tool in allowing both student and teacher to be aware if something is amiss.
2) "Most teachers are overjoyed when Friday finally rolls around."
Count me in, and I LOVE teaching. In fact, I usually finish Friday's lesson with a resounding "Here Comes The...
At which the students will scream weekend.
I've been lucky enough to teach all spectrums.
However, if a student isn't "intelligent", he or she can still make a valuable role in society.
That said, as in sport, the top need special nurturing, for without the cream, the milk may taste sour.
If I were looking for a teacher at my school, I would first look for knowledge of subject, second an ability to manage a class (discipline), and third a sense of humour.
Of course, all would be made irrelevant should the teacher lack the skill of "teaching"
Keep fighting the fight, and of course...
Keep smiling,
Philip.