Kipp Dawson - Teachers Make a Difference

The speaker reflects on four influential teachers from their past. Mrs. Ramsay, a passionate first-grade teacher, made students feel important. Mrs. Stewart, a fifth-grade teacher, defied norms by teaching Spanish, challenging racial prejudices. Mr. Tedesko, a high school teacher, supported civil rights activism during the McCarthy era. Lastly, Mrs. James, a mentor in Pittsburg, taught the speaker to balance love and discipline in teaching. These educators have left a lasting impact on the speaker's life and teaching philosophy.

What was the primary contribution of Mrs. Ramsay to the narrator's early education?

• She taught them advanced mathematics.

• She made each student feel valued and important.

• She organized sports activities.

• She introduced them to classical music.

How did Mrs. Stewart challenge the societal norms of her time?

• By organizing a science fair.

• By teaching her students to speak Spanish.

• By introducing a new math curriculum.

• By starting a school garden.

What was the societal perception of Spanish speakers in California during the narrator's childhood?

• They were considered more intelligent.

• They were seen as less intelligent.

• They were encouraged to teach others.

• They were highly respected.

What role did Mr. Tedesko play in the narrator's high school experience?

• He taught them music.

• He sponsored a civil rights group.

• He was their math teacher.

• He organized sports events.

What did Mrs. James teach the narrator about handling students?

• To avoid emotional connections.

• To focus solely on academics.

• To balance love and discipline.

• To be strict and unyielding.