When thinking of favorite memories, my fifth-grade teacher comes to mind. She was young, and out of college for just a short time when she came to our small town.
What made her memorable was that she treated us like individuals, not just students. She gave us choices and privileges. She found something special about each of us and built a relationship based on trust and respect. We understood the tacit mutual bond despite our young age. We all loved her for her unique approach to teaching.
She let us chew gum with the several stipulations: We did not chew gum outside of her class. The already chewed gum had to hit the trash, and most of all we could not chew like a cow. If a student chose to buck her system the privilege was lost for the whole class…briefly.
She made learning fun and created an atmosphere of cooperation. My youthful psyche liked school. The year was full of new successes for me.
My science fair project won fourth place. My original project centered around anatomy and the fascinating clear pictures in the encyclopedia that had several overlaying pages. First came the human skeleton, then the organs, then the muscles and finally the skin. My project was too broad and not coming together. The deadline approached. My project would not be complete.
The Principal
happened to visit our class one day. He suggested in an encouraging tone, “Why don’t you change your project to clouds? Maybe you can make the different clouds out of cotton.” And so, the simple idea came to fruition and got me a fourth-place ribbon. That night at the science fair my elation soared with my clouds. I had actually won something.
In our class we also did other memorable things. For a small group project we got to put puzzles together. When completed we glued them together and hung them around the room.
Often after our lunch break our beloved teacher would read us books: North to Freedom, Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and others that escape my memory.
But my favorite subject of all time was creative writing. Each week she gave us a different topic.
Eager for the new assignment that promised to give life to images dancing in my mind. Impatient to give them form and unfold in a new expression. My imagination stirred, thoughts provoked, words written…as I zealously completed my written masterpiece for the week.
Hence, a passion ignited.
Good teachers reach not only our minds, but our hearts.
Do you have a teacher that touched your heart and mind?
Scripture for Today
“A student is not superior to his teacher; but everyone, after he has been completely trained, will be like his teacher.” (Luke 6:40 AMP).
Photo by Jeffrey-hamilton via unsplash
© 2020 Nanette M. Holloway-All Rights Reserved
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Mrs. Ashley, my 2nd grade teacher, also read to us every day. I especially remember crying when she read the story of Bambi. She was a special woman who exhibited great love for all the children in her classroom. Each Friday afternoon, we would push all the desks against the wall and she would teach us how to square dance. I loved it!
What a wonderful teacher! Thank you for sharing, Linda