One of my favorite teachers was Mrs. Wilson my AP US History teacher. Up until that point, history was so boring to me. She was so knowledgeable and I just loved her class so much because she made it so fascinating.
Because it was an AP class, she treated us like we were college students. I loved that about her class and that someone didn't treat us like we were ignorant or dumb.
As a teacher, I try to make learning as engaging as Mrs. Wilson did for me. She taught me that when you're engaged the learning comes easily.
My favorite teacher was Mrs. McCraw, my senior English teacher. What I remember most about her was that she shared herself with her students. No matter the lesson she was teaching, she always related it to an experience in her own life. Because of this personal feeling, I was willing to work harder because I knew the learning meant alot to her.
Mrs. McCraw changed the way I look at books and literature, and I 100% credit her with the reason I became a teacher. I still visit with her almost every time I go home to see my family. Because she shared so much of herself with her students, she feels like family.
As a teacher, I tell stories about myself to my students even if they are sad, funny, or embarassing. The kids need to feel that personal connection with their teachers.
My favorite teacher was Mrs. Snodgrass for 7th grade Geometry. I was absolutely horrible at geometry and took forever to understand a concept. She stayed with me everyday after school and helped me finish my homework and study for test. I also took my tests on the chalkboard after school because that is the only way that I could pass!! She taught me to never give up on students and to keep trying to find ways to help them succeed. I hope that I show this to my students :) Jana Price
My favorite teacher was Mr. Walters, my third grade teacher. He was FASCINATING! He always wore a polyester pant suit and had hair that reminded me of the Beatles. More importantly though, while we learned in his class, we had fun. I always suspected that our class was completely unique compared to the other classes in third grade. We played games, wrote novels (or so my third grade self thought), and made movies. Each day was something fun and I remember thinking as I rode the bus home, "I really learned something new today!" I believe he influenced me to think differently...I don't have to be just like everyone else in the things I think. He showed me daily that I can get the correct answer, but I didn't have to think the same about solving the problem as the person next to me. As a teacher, I try to have fun and teach my students as he taught me. I try to help them see, as students, we are all different and it is OK to learn that way.
My favorite teacher was Ms. A, who I first had in 8th grade history. She eventually followed us to high school and became our assistant principal at Boswell. Ms. A just had a way of making you, the student, want to succeed and be the best. Her saying was alway, "Don't settle for mediocrity, take pride in your work." It really did stick! She made history...which we all know can be boring...real and interesting with the self-driven projects and such that she would give us. She made the learning meaningful and that is what I try to do each and every day...make it meaningful.
Gena Campbell The teacher I remember the most was a college professor, Dr. Culp. I had done quite well in high school, but when I arrived at college I seemed to think it was harder than what it actually always was, doubting if I could really do it or not. My confidence never really soared. My junior year I was in an advanced Tradgies of Shakespeare class, where it turned out I was with way too many brainy people. I felt quite inadequate. Everyone seemed to be part of the higher-level thinkers, giving the impression of so with "it" and knowledgeable. I suffered every time I went in there, even though I was learning an incredible amount about Shakespeare and enjoying every one of the plays. I listened as Dr. Culp would call on certain people and ask their opinions and address his comments with a "funny" by calling them by a fun name with a Mr. or Miss title in front of it. We had our first test, a long essay one. I passed! I could not have been more ecstatic! Dr. Culp said something personally to me when he passed them out... a compliment. The next class period he actually was giving one of his great orations about some "tragedy" when out of the clear blue he addressed the comment to me, calling my name (in a very fun, but incorrect way of saying it). I FLOATED out of that class. From then on he included me, on occasion, with a personalization of question or comment. I finally knew I belonged and was going to be A-OK. From that point on, I recognized that I could do the advanced classes and that I was smart enough to compete for a grade with all the "smarties". I knew I belonged in college. It still gives me a wonderful feeling about how much confidence he was able to give me, when I really didn't have much, academically. He cared. He recognized my worth. He let it be known publicly. I was NEVER prouder of a B in my whole life! I appreciate him and Shakespeare to this day.
The teacher that had the most impact on me was Mr. Abbott, my World History teacher in high school. Up until I was in Mr. Abbott's class I had teachers who made us read a chapter in a book and answer the questions at the end to "learn" history. Mr. Abbott told stories. I remember sitting in his class getting lost in his stories of Kings and wars. He made history come to life by relating it to our lives, too.
Mr. Abbott was a man that we all respected because he treated us like adults and expected us to act like them. If you chose to act like a child, he would have you do something silly, like act out and sing "I'm a little teapot" to the class. If you blew through a test and just wrote down a bunch of junk, he called you on it. He forced you to be responsible for your learning no matter who you were.
My favorite teacher was named Mrs. Randolph who was my 8th grade ELA teacher. She was such a hippie and her classroom was so cool! She had one giant yellow wall with a huge black peace sign painted on it. Around the peace sign were inspiring quotes. She always used lamps instead of the bright flourescent lights. Each day when we came into her classroom, she would have a quote of the day written on the board in which we had to respond to. It really made you think outside the box and see things from other perspectives. As a teacher now, I urge my students to do the same. Being a math teacher, there are LOTS of different ways to solve math problems. It's good to recognize that there's not just one way to answer something. You can look at it in all sorts of ways. Leah
My favorite teacher was my Fourth Grade Teacher, Mrs. Winans. She made every effort to make sure each child was accepted in the classroom, made friends, and learned! She was excited to teach every day and made each one of us feel special. She encouraged us when we were down and celebrated our successes. Her smile melts my heart every time I see her, even until this day! Her spunky attitude always impressed me and encouraged me to go into education. Tara Crockett
My sophmore year of high school Mrs. Barber, my English teacher, taught me that I should expect more of myself. She took the time to encourage me and made sure I knew that I could do just as well as everyone else.
After that year my attitude toward my academics changed. All because someone took the time to build that relationship with me.
I will always remember my 2nd grade teach Mrs. Petelin, because of the relationships she formed with her students. I knew that she had high expectations for me, and would hold me to them. She always gave us freedom to express ourselves and to learn in our own ways. I was lucky enough to learn from her again, as my "retired teacher" mentor last year, which was such a great experience. I am so grateful for all that she has taught me through the years! Cindy Hertel
I remember my fifth grade teacher well. She was always freindly, smiled all the time, and she liked kids. She treated us like we were all a valuable part of the class no matter our backgrounds. She also taught math using visuals which made it possible for me to understand mathematical concepts for the first time.
I had many favorite teachers and loved school and learning so much. But the teacher that really stands out as different from all others was a high school history teacher Mr. Haynes. Mr. Haynes had classes that were always full(you got to sign up for his class and everyone did) and always fun. When you entered his class, you picked up the daily Fort Worth Star Telegram and he had articles listed that were to be read and later discussed in class. If we read them before class began we could read anything we wanted...which meant the comic strips, sale pages or look for a used car.
Mr. Haynes rode his motorcycle to each of the 48 continental states during his summer vacations, camping at KOA camps. We loved hearing about his adventures. I still remember the one about the bee getting under the shield of his helmet. His love for teaching and for his students was clear and we knew he was a real person. He helped us see that the world around us was about much more than the plans we had for the weekend. But he also let us know it was okay to have fun and enjoy life. sandra stringer
I encountered a wonderful teacher in high school after a pretty negative experience with an algebra teacher. The first teacher made many assumptions about what his students understood or did not understand. If you were the unfortunate sould that did not understand, you also became the subject of open ridicule in front of the class. He was a very intelligent man, but had a really difficult time helping his students benefit from his intelligence. Mrs. McConathy rescued me! She was different because she never left anything to chance. She gave very thorough explanations which was a relief to someone who had difficulty understanding the concept. Consequently, my grades soared that year and at least a little of my self-esteem was restored!
The best teacher I've ever had is Dr. Paul Menzer. He was my Shakespeare professor in college. Taking his class made me really understand Shakespeare and develop a true love for his plays, so much so that I took an advanced Shakespeare course with Dr. Menzer during my graduate degree. Dr. Menzer made something that felt so old and pointless feel so alive and relevant. He spent time talking with me outside of class and was very supportive of my becoming an English teacher. He told me that I could make a difference.
I have always loved school and learning, but my fondest memories involve reading and being matched with the right books at the right time. I remember the magic of Mr. Tall Teeth and other colorful characters in Mrs. Nicewonger's kindergarten bringing phonics and letter sounds to life with visuals and music. I remember being given permission to choose books from the "big kid shelves" in the library--oh the thrill of freedom and choice!! In 2nd grade, I remember Mrs. Brown introducing me to my first chapter book series. I fell in love with favorite authors like Beverly Cleary and Laura Ingalls Wilder. I remember Miss Sweeney's captivating read alouds in fourth grade and never wanting the chapter to end("The Secret of Nihm"--totally dug it!). I remember loving literary analysis in junior high with Mrs. Maulsby and Mrs. Colbertson and being given language to consider the craft of writing. Later, in high school, I was introduced to the power of hearing an author read and discuss their own writing when Mrs. Scott and Mrs. McGeeHee sent students to the Dallas Public Library for a special event. I have always loved words and language and am ever grateful to the many wonderful teachers who brought them to life for me.
I just wrote a novel and it was all erased when I tried to publish wah wah :( So here we go again... The best teacher I ever had was my 9th grade Honors Geography teacher, Mrs. Hammon. I probably worked harder in her class at 14 than I ever did throughout college. She made learning fun and everything she did was hands on. When she had a sub, she even video taped herself teaching the lesson and had the sub just play the tape. That is dedication. Plus, I will never forget her rendition of "Ice, Ice Baby." "Ice, ice baby.. it's cold, it's cold" She sang it while holding an inflatable penguin to teach us about the Arctic. If anyone in class made an ethnocentric comment she made them stand on their chairs and take notes that way until class is over. She has no tolerance for ethnocentrism and is the reason why I now have the same respect for no ethnocentrism. She is one of those teachers that I still talk about. In fact, my mom and I were talking about her over Christmas break even though it has been 14 years since I was in her class. She truly made learning fun.
Like many of you I have always loved school. Being raised by a single mother, school was naturally my second home. I was always curious about how teachers came to be teachers and why in the world they would want to care about me. Some teachers were great and others, well, not so great. The best teacher I ever had was my High School Junior English teacher, Mrs. Baldridge. Sure, she made teaching fun and different. Ok, it was hands on, too. She did all of that. But she touched me when, if it was raining outside, she would get wet... sometimes soaking wet, waiting for my class to arrive. She would literally wait for us outside to make sure we arrived safely. I felt like she was waiting only for me! Me? A skinny, long-haired kid simply looking for someone to care for him! I played football. After I made a bad play that literally lost the game single-handedly the team hated me. She met me at the door of her class the following Monday. She walked me to a nearby teacher's lounge and I unloaded. I never cried so hard in my life. Another teacher had covered her class so she could comfort me. You know, sometimes with all of the garbage kids go through, the greatest things I could ever give a child is my time and a hug. I was able to see her last year. My wife called me from the emergency room where she works and said for me to hurry there because she had a surprise for me. I arrived and she took me into a room where my teacher sat. She was fine. She had taken a bad fall. She was there alone and I instantly took command. I made sure she was comfortable. I spoke to the doctor. I followed her to her room and got her set up and waited for her kids to arrive. Oh my God, I absolutely love that lady! From that moment on I swore to myself that I would ask anyone at our school if I could help them. My teach had sat alone for hours in pain, but I promised myself that none of my co-workers would EVER do the same. I'm going to drive you crazy asking, but you have the greatest teacher who ever touched this lonely little kids life to thank for that! -John Collett
My most favorite and memorable teacher was Mrs. Laufer, my second grade teacher. She always approached me with compassion and she never acknowledged that I was shy. Teachers always told me I was shy, which made me feel like I had to live up to always be shy. She talked to me like we were best buddies, asked questions that allowed me to share things I loved, told me stories about herself, and showed interest in everything I did with great enthusiasm but not ever too much to bring attention to me or embarass me in anyway. She was always happy and smiling and that made me feel so comfortable to be a part of her classroom. I was the kind of student that if I felt scared or embarassed, I did not talk in fear I would be wrong about something. I always felt like I could be myself and she built up my confidence in the classrom. Today, I try to do the same for my students- Megan Jackson
My favorite teacher inspired me to become a teacher. I witnessed her use compassion and constant encouragement to help her students. Eventhough I excelled in her class, she encouraged me to do better, to go that extra mile. I watched her use tough love with other students and still win their trust and hearts. Each student in her class wanted to learn from her and accomplish their goals. ~ Linda Rettig
One of my all time favorite teachers was my third grade teacher. I was ALWAYS the shortest/smallest kid in the class (big surprise there, right?). So naturally, I was occasionally picked on. Nothing too bad though. One day, a kid kept calling me "shrimp" and it really hurt my feelings. My teacher pulled the two of us aside and let me explain why it hurt my feelings. The other kid eventually said he was sorry so I replied with "it's OK". My teacher said something that has stuck with me forever. She said, its not ok. Even if they say sorry, never tell them its ok. It then gives them permission to do it again. THis is a tiny example of the many lessons she taught me about forgiveness and how to stand tall; even though I was "vertically challenged" :) -Miranda Shue
My third grade teacher was Kay Batte. She was added to our school after the school year was already in full swing. I remember feeling slightly rejected by my former teacher for being selected as one of the students that would make the move into the new teacher's classroom. For the life of me I cannot remember her name, just the feeling I had at the time. The feeling didn't last because Mrs. Batte was an innovative teacher that clustered our desks, which had never been done before! She brought her video camera from home and allowed us to learn to record our reader’s theater groups so that we could critique ourselves and learn how to become better readers and presenters. I remember when the year changed in January, she told us that there would never be another day like this in our lives and that we only have 365 days each year to make it a great year before it would be forever gone. I had never looked at each day as so very important until that moment that she wrote with the yellow chalk on the blackboard. Later she caught me cheating and laid down her expectations, because I was a child that was not putting forth effort although she fostered a relationship with me that created curiosity for learning, a feeling of worth and new expectations for myself as a learner! - Jennifer Villines
Ironically, my kindergarten teacher Mrs. Shay was my most influential teacher. She was always very sensitive to everyone's individual needs in our class and placed emphasis on the fact that everyone is unique and special. The classroom atmosphere was so warm and welcoming. I can still tell you everything about her classroom and where everything is located. My favorite center in the room was either the book corner which was composed of cozy pillows and bean bags or the felt board station where she had a felt set for every story known to man. The library was such a magical place! I still remember singing "Little Bunny Foo Foo" and acting out "Going on a Bear Hunt" with her there. Every part of our day was "fun" or at least disguised that way.
During our "woodland animal" unit study she had each student around our semi circle name an animal. Well, I was sitting towards the end of the circle and everyone kept naming the animal I wanted to name!! (I hope I wasn't "that" kid! "HE TOOK MY ANSWER .. hmph!" ha!) So, when she got to me I said "flamingo???" and the whole class started laughing.. so did she! I like to think I was the gifted one in that class! haha!
My mother loved her also and kept every newsletter she sent home for the memories and I still have many of them! Of course, they were done on a type writer and are in purple ink! It's fun to look back at them to see how kindergarten has changed!!
She laid such a strong foundation for my learning and as an educator I truly value all the memories that were made in her class. I even occasionally have a "What Would Mrs. Shay Do" moment :) ~Nora Wehmer
The best teacher I ever had was in college: he was my philosophy and critical thinking professor. I came to my university fairly open-minded and, as far as I was concerned, intelligent. Dr. Jack Sibley brought me into a world of critical thinking and expanded my mind far beyond what I believed capable. He would ask difficult questions and have us present both sides of an argument. He taught me that there are ALWAYS two sides to a predicament. He taught me to question EVERYTHING and to never accept someone's word as law. (This has caused much strife with my friends and family) This was one of my first courses that was truly challenging; however, what I learned in this class still influences me today.
My favorite teacher was Miss A. She was my 8th grade history teacher, cheerleading sponsor, yearbook teacher, and most of all someone who believed in me. She always had signs posted around her room with various quotes. My favorite "Don't settle for mediocrity always take PRIDE in your work." Funny how after all these years I can still hear her say that. Miss. A pushed me to be better and I really thank her for that. Britt McDougal
My favorite teacher was actually my Aunt. Susan Murphy was my teacher for two years in high school. She was the sponser for the PALS program at my school. P.A.L. stands for Peer Assistance and Leadership. It was a class for juniors and seniors who enjoyed working with others. Two days a week we went to feeder elementary and middle schools to work with students. The other three days we learned skills about how to work with people in all situations. To this day she still talks about using "PAL skills". It was during this class that I discovered I was supposed to be a teacher. A lot of my family is in education and I was resistant to follow in thier footsteps. It was my aunt who made me realize that I was really good at it. She taught me so many life lessons about how to connect with students. Everyone loved her. She was that one teacher that students really felt like they could open up too. She made me realize how important it was to have a good relationship with your students.
One of my favorite teachers was Mrs. Wilson my AP US History teacher. Up until that point, history was so boring to me. She was so knowledgeable and I just loved her class so much because she made it so fascinating.
ReplyDeleteBecause it was an AP class, she treated us like we were college students. I loved that about her class and that someone didn't treat us like we were ignorant or dumb.
As a teacher, I try to make learning as engaging as Mrs. Wilson did for me. She taught me that when you're engaged the learning comes easily.
My favorite teacher was Mrs. McCraw, my senior English teacher. What I remember most about her was that she shared herself with her students. No matter the lesson she was teaching, she always related it to an experience in her own life. Because of this personal feeling, I was willing to work harder because I knew the learning meant alot to her.
ReplyDeleteMrs. McCraw changed the way I look at books and literature, and I 100% credit her with the reason I became a teacher. I still visit with her almost every time I go home to see my family. Because she shared so much of herself with her students, she feels like family.
As a teacher, I tell stories about myself to my students even if they are sad, funny, or embarassing. The kids need to feel that personal connection with their teachers.
My favorite teacher was Mrs. Snodgrass for 7th grade Geometry. I was absolutely horrible at geometry and took forever to understand a concept. She stayed with me everyday after school and helped me finish my homework and study for test. I also took my tests on the chalkboard after school because that is the only way that I could pass!! She taught me to never give up on students and to keep trying to find ways to help them succeed. I hope that I show this to my students :) Jana Price
ReplyDeleteMy favorite teacher was Mr. Walters, my third grade teacher. He was FASCINATING! He always wore a polyester pant suit and had hair that reminded me of the Beatles. More importantly though, while we learned in his class, we had fun. I always suspected that our class was completely unique compared to the other classes in third grade. We played games, wrote novels (or so my third grade self thought), and made movies. Each day was something fun and I remember thinking as I rode the bus home, "I really learned something new today!" I believe he influenced me to think differently...I don't have to be just like everyone else in the things I think. He showed me daily that I can get the correct answer, but I didn't have to think the same about solving the problem as the person next to me. As a teacher, I try to have fun and teach my students as he taught me. I try to help them see, as students, we are all different and it is OK to learn that way.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite teacher was Ms. A, who I first had in 8th grade history. She eventually followed us to high school and became our assistant principal at Boswell. Ms. A just had a way of making you, the student, want to succeed and be the best. Her saying was alway, "Don't settle for mediocrity, take pride in your work." It really did stick! She made history...which we all know can be boring...real and interesting with the self-driven projects and such that she would give us. She made the learning meaningful and that is what I try to do each and every day...make it meaningful.
ReplyDelete~Lezlie Ringstaff
Gena Campbell
ReplyDeleteThe teacher I remember the most was a college professor, Dr. Culp. I had done quite well in high school, but when I arrived at college I seemed to think it was harder than what it actually always was, doubting if I could really do it or not. My confidence never really soared. My junior year I was in an advanced Tradgies of Shakespeare class, where it turned out I was with way too many brainy people. I felt quite inadequate. Everyone seemed to be part of the higher-level thinkers, giving the impression of so with "it" and knowledgeable. I suffered every time I went in there, even though I was learning an incredible amount about Shakespeare and enjoying every one of the plays. I listened as Dr. Culp would call on certain people and ask their opinions and address his comments with a "funny" by calling them by a fun name with a Mr. or Miss title in front of it. We had our first test, a long essay one. I passed! I could not have been more ecstatic! Dr. Culp said something personally to me when he passed them out... a compliment. The next class period he actually was giving one of his great orations about some "tragedy" when out of the clear blue he addressed the comment to me, calling my name (in a very fun, but incorrect way of saying it). I FLOATED out of that class. From then on he included me, on occasion, with a personalization of question or comment. I finally knew I belonged and was going to be A-OK. From that point on, I recognized that I could do the advanced classes and that I was smart enough to compete for a grade with all the "smarties". I knew I belonged in college. It still gives me a wonderful feeling about how much confidence he was able to give me, when I really didn't have much, academically. He cared. He recognized my worth. He let it be known publicly. I was NEVER prouder of a B in my whole life! I appreciate him and Shakespeare to this day.
The teacher that had the most impact on me was Mr. Abbott, my World History teacher in high school. Up until I was in Mr. Abbott's class I had teachers who made us read a chapter in a book and answer the questions at the end to "learn" history. Mr. Abbott told stories. I remember sitting in his class getting lost in his stories of Kings and wars. He made history come to life by relating it to our lives, too.
ReplyDeleteMr. Abbott was a man that we all respected because he treated us like adults and expected us to act like them. If you chose to act like a child, he would have you do something silly, like act out and sing "I'm a little teapot" to the class. If you blew through a test and just wrote down a bunch of junk, he called you on it. He forced you to be responsible for your learning no matter who you were.
Rebecca Snodgrass
My favorite teacher was named Mrs. Randolph who was my 8th grade ELA teacher. She was such a hippie and her classroom was so cool! She had one giant yellow wall with a huge black peace sign painted on it. Around the peace sign were inspiring quotes. She always used lamps instead of the bright flourescent lights. Each day when we came into her classroom, she would have a quote of the day written on the board in which we had to respond to. It really made you think outside the box and see things from other perspectives. As a teacher now, I urge my students to do the same. Being a math teacher, there are LOTS of different ways to solve math problems. It's good to recognize that there's not just one way to answer something. You can look at it in all sorts of ways.
ReplyDeleteLeah
My favorite teacher was my Fourth Grade Teacher, Mrs. Winans. She made every effort to make sure each child was accepted in the classroom, made friends, and learned! She was excited to teach every day and made each one of us feel special. She encouraged us when we were down and celebrated our successes. Her smile melts my heart every time I see her, even until this day! Her spunky attitude always impressed me and encouraged me to go into education.
ReplyDeleteTara Crockett
My sophmore year of high school Mrs. Barber, my English teacher, taught me that I should expect more of myself. She took the time to encourage me and made sure I knew that I could do just as well as everyone else.
ReplyDeleteAfter that year my attitude toward my academics changed. All because someone took the time to build that relationship with me.
Amanda White
I will always remember my 2nd grade teach Mrs. Petelin, because of the relationships she formed with her students. I knew that she had high expectations for me, and would hold me to them. She always gave us freedom to express ourselves and to learn in our own ways.
ReplyDeleteI was lucky enough to learn from her again, as my "retired teacher" mentor last year, which was such a great experience. I am so grateful for all that she has taught me through the years!
Cindy Hertel
I remember my fifth grade teacher well. She was always freindly, smiled all the time, and she liked kids. She treated us like we were all a valuable part of the class no matter our backgrounds.
ReplyDeleteShe also taught math using visuals which made it possible for me to understand mathematical concepts for the first time.
I had many favorite teachers and loved school and learning so much. But the teacher that really stands out as different from all others was a high school history teacher Mr. Haynes. Mr. Haynes had classes that were always full(you got to sign up for his class and everyone did) and always fun. When you entered his class, you picked up the daily Fort Worth Star Telegram and he had articles listed that were to be read and later discussed in class. If we read them before class began we could read anything we wanted...which meant the comic strips, sale pages or look for a used car.
ReplyDeleteMr. Haynes rode his motorcycle to each of the 48 continental states during his summer vacations, camping at KOA camps. We loved hearing about his adventures. I still remember the one about the bee getting under the shield of his helmet. His love for teaching and for his students was clear and we knew he was a real person. He helped us see that the world around us was about much more than the plans we had for the weekend. But he also let us know it was okay to have fun and enjoy life.
sandra stringer
I encountered a wonderful teacher in high school after a pretty negative experience with an algebra teacher. The first teacher made many assumptions about what his students understood or did not understand. If you were the unfortunate sould that did not understand, you also became the subject of open ridicule in front of the class. He was a very intelligent man, but had a really difficult time helping his students benefit from his intelligence. Mrs. McConathy rescued me! She was different because she never left anything to chance. She gave very thorough explanations which was a relief to someone who had difficulty understanding the concept. Consequently, my grades soared that year and at least a little of my self-esteem was restored!
ReplyDeleteThe best teacher I've ever had is Dr. Paul Menzer. He was my Shakespeare professor in college. Taking his class made me really understand Shakespeare and develop a true love for his plays, so much so that I took an advanced Shakespeare course with Dr. Menzer during my graduate degree. Dr. Menzer made something that felt so old and pointless feel so alive and relevant. He spent time talking with me outside of class and was very supportive of my becoming an English teacher. He told me that I could make a difference.
ReplyDeleteJulie
I have always loved school and learning, but my fondest memories involve reading and being matched with the right books at the right time. I remember the magic of Mr. Tall Teeth and other colorful characters in Mrs. Nicewonger's kindergarten bringing phonics and letter sounds to life with visuals and music. I remember being given permission to choose books from the "big kid shelves" in the library--oh the thrill of freedom and choice!! In 2nd grade, I remember Mrs. Brown introducing me to my first chapter book series. I fell in love with favorite authors like Beverly Cleary and Laura Ingalls Wilder. I remember Miss Sweeney's captivating read alouds in fourth grade and never wanting the chapter to end("The Secret of Nihm"--totally dug it!). I remember loving literary analysis in junior high with Mrs. Maulsby and Mrs. Colbertson and being given language to consider the craft of writing. Later, in high school, I was introduced to the power of hearing an author read and discuss their own writing when Mrs. Scott and Mrs. McGeeHee sent students to the Dallas Public Library for a special event. I have always loved words and language and am ever grateful to the many wonderful teachers who brought them to life for me.
ReplyDeleteShana Sewalt
I just wrote a novel and it was all erased when I tried to publish wah wah :( So here we go again...
ReplyDeleteThe best teacher I ever had was my 9th grade Honors Geography teacher, Mrs. Hammon. I probably worked harder in her class at 14 than I ever did throughout college. She made learning fun and everything she did was hands on. When she had a sub, she even video taped herself teaching the lesson and had the sub just play the tape. That is dedication. Plus, I will never forget her rendition of "Ice, Ice Baby." "Ice, ice baby.. it's cold, it's cold" She sang it while holding an inflatable penguin to teach us about the Arctic. If anyone in class made an ethnocentric comment she made them stand on their chairs and take notes that way until class is over. She has no tolerance for ethnocentrism and is the reason why I now have the same respect for no ethnocentrism. She is one of those teachers that I still talk about. In fact, my mom and I were talking about her over Christmas break even though it has been 14 years since I was in her class. She truly made learning fun.
-Claire Lindley
Like many of you I have always loved school. Being raised by a single mother, school was naturally my second home. I was always curious about how teachers came to be teachers and why in the world they would want to care about me. Some teachers were great and others, well, not so great. The best teacher I ever had was my High School Junior English teacher, Mrs. Baldridge. Sure, she made teaching fun and different. Ok, it was hands on, too. She did all of that. But she touched me when, if it was raining outside, she would get wet... sometimes soaking wet, waiting for my class to arrive. She would literally wait for us outside to make sure we arrived safely. I felt like she was waiting only for me! Me? A skinny, long-haired kid simply looking for someone to care for him! I played football. After I made a bad play that literally lost the game single-handedly the team hated me. She met me at the door of her class the following Monday. She walked me to a nearby teacher's lounge and I unloaded. I never cried so hard in my life. Another teacher had covered her class so she could comfort me. You know, sometimes with all of the garbage kids go through, the greatest things I could ever give a child is my time and a hug. I was able to see her last year. My wife called me from the emergency room where she works and said for me to hurry there because she had a surprise for me. I arrived and she took me into a room where my teacher sat. She was fine. She had taken a bad fall. She was there alone and I instantly took command. I made sure she was comfortable. I spoke to the doctor. I followed her to her room and got her set up and waited for her kids to arrive. Oh my God, I absolutely love that lady! From that moment on I swore to myself that I would ask anyone at our school if I could help them. My teach had sat alone for hours in pain, but I promised myself that none of my co-workers would EVER do the same. I'm going to drive you crazy asking, but you have the greatest teacher who ever touched this lonely little kids life to thank for that! -John Collett
ReplyDeleteMy most favorite and memorable teacher was Mrs. Laufer, my second grade teacher. She always approached me with compassion and she never acknowledged that I was shy. Teachers always told me I was shy, which made me feel like I had to live up to always be shy. She talked to me like we were best buddies, asked questions that allowed me to share things I loved, told me stories about herself, and showed interest in everything I did with great enthusiasm but not ever too much to bring attention to me or embarass me in anyway. She was always happy and smiling and that made me feel so comfortable to be a part of her classroom. I was the kind of student that if I felt scared or embarassed, I did not talk in fear I would be wrong about something. I always felt like I could be myself and she built up my confidence in the classrom. Today, I try to do the same for my students- Megan Jackson
ReplyDeleteMy favorite teacher inspired me to become a teacher. I witnessed her use compassion and constant encouragement to help her students. Eventhough I excelled in her class, she encouraged me to do better, to go that extra mile. I watched her use tough love with other students and still win their trust and hearts. Each student in her class wanted to learn from her and accomplish their goals. ~ Linda Rettig
ReplyDeleteOne of my all time favorite teachers was my third grade teacher. I was ALWAYS the shortest/smallest kid in the class (big surprise there, right?). So naturally, I was occasionally picked on. Nothing too bad though. One day, a kid kept calling me "shrimp" and it really hurt my feelings. My teacher pulled the two of us aside and let me explain why it hurt my feelings. The other kid eventually said he was sorry so I replied with "it's OK". My teacher said something that has stuck with me forever. She said, its not ok. Even if they say sorry, never tell them its ok. It then gives them permission to do it again. THis is a tiny example of the many lessons she taught me about forgiveness and how to stand tall; even though I was "vertically challenged" :)
ReplyDelete-Miranda Shue
My third grade teacher was Kay Batte. She was added to our school after the school year was already in full swing. I remember feeling slightly rejected by my former teacher for being selected as one of the students that would make the move into the new teacher's classroom. For the life of me I cannot remember her name, just the feeling I had at the time. The feeling didn't last because Mrs. Batte was an innovative teacher that clustered our desks, which had never been done before! She brought her video camera from home and allowed us to learn to record our reader’s theater groups so that we could critique ourselves and learn how to become better readers and presenters.
ReplyDeleteI remember when the year changed in January, she told us that there would never be another day like this in our lives and that we only have 365 days each year to make it a great year before it would be forever gone. I had never looked at each day as so very important until that moment that she wrote with the yellow chalk on the blackboard. Later she caught me cheating and laid down her expectations, because I was a child that was not putting forth effort although she fostered a relationship with me that created curiosity for learning, a feeling of worth and new expectations for myself as a learner!
- Jennifer Villines
Ironically, my kindergarten teacher Mrs. Shay was my most influential teacher. She was always very sensitive to everyone's individual needs in our class and placed emphasis on the fact that everyone is unique and special. The classroom atmosphere was so warm and welcoming. I can still tell you everything about her classroom and where everything is located. My favorite center in the room was either the book corner which was composed of cozy pillows and bean bags or the felt board station where she had a felt set for every story known to man. The library was such a magical place! I still remember singing "Little Bunny Foo Foo" and acting out "Going on a Bear Hunt" with her there. Every part of our day was "fun" or at least disguised that way.
ReplyDeleteDuring our "woodland animal" unit study she had each student around our semi circle name an animal. Well, I was sitting towards the end of the circle and everyone kept naming the animal I wanted to name!! (I hope I wasn't "that" kid! "HE TOOK MY ANSWER .. hmph!" ha!) So, when she got to me I said "flamingo???" and the whole class started laughing.. so did she! I like to think I was the gifted one in that class! haha!
My mother loved her also and kept every newsletter she sent home for the memories and I still have many of them! Of course, they were done on a type writer and are in purple ink! It's fun to look back at them to see how kindergarten has changed!!
She laid such a strong foundation for my learning and as an educator I truly value all the memories that were made in her class. I even occasionally have a "What Would Mrs. Shay Do" moment :)
~Nora Wehmer
The best teacher I ever had was in college: he was my philosophy and critical thinking professor. I came to my university fairly open-minded and, as far as I was concerned, intelligent. Dr. Jack Sibley brought me into a world of critical thinking and expanded my mind far beyond what I believed capable. He would ask difficult questions and have us present both sides of an argument. He taught me that there are ALWAYS two sides to a predicament. He taught me to question EVERYTHING and to never accept someone's word as law. (This has caused much strife with my friends and family) This was one of my first courses that was truly challenging; however, what I learned in this class still influences me today.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite teacher was Miss A. She was my 8th grade history teacher, cheerleading sponsor, yearbook teacher, and most of all someone who believed in me. She always had signs posted around her room with various quotes. My favorite "Don't settle for mediocrity always take PRIDE in your work." Funny how after all these years I can still hear her say that. Miss. A pushed me to be better and I really thank her for that.
ReplyDeleteBritt McDougal
My favorite teacher was actually my Aunt. Susan Murphy was my teacher for two years in high school. She was the sponser for the PALS program at my school. P.A.L. stands for Peer Assistance and Leadership. It was a class for juniors and seniors who enjoyed working with others. Two days a week we went to feeder elementary and middle schools to work with students. The other three days we learned skills about how to work with people in all situations. To this day she still talks about using "PAL skills". It was during this class that I discovered I was supposed to be a teacher. A lot of my family is in education and I was resistant to follow in thier footsteps. It was my aunt who made me realize that I was really good at it. She taught me so many life lessons about how to connect with students. Everyone loved her. She was that one teacher that students really felt like they could open up too. She made me realize how important it was to have a good relationship with your students.
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