Mayor Ras J. Baraka - Teachers Make a Difference

The speaker reflects on the significant impact teachers have had on their life, from elementary school to college. They highlight the influence of an organized and caring elementary teacher, Miss Edmondson, and the challenges faced in college that pushed them to excel, particularly under the guidance of Professor Taylor at Howard University.

What qualities did Miss Edmondson exhibit that made her a memorable teacher?

• She was disorganized but fun.

• She was strict and unapproachable.

• She focused solely on academic achievements.

• She was organized, caring, and created a clean learning environment.

How did the speaker describe their high school teachers?

• They were less impactful than college teachers.

• They were not impactful.

• They were as impactful as college teachers.

• They were more impactful than college teachers.

What was the speaker's experience with Professor Taylor?

• The professor challenged the speaker to improve their work.

• The professor encouraged mediocrity.

• The professor was indifferent to student progress.

• The professor accepted all work without feedback.

What was the outcome of the speaker's experience with Professor Taylor's challenge?

• The speaker dropped the class.

• The speaker was discouraged and gave up.

• The speaker ignored the feedback.

• The speaker improved their work and learned from the experience.

What did the speaker learn from their college experience?

• That avoiding challenges is best.

• That challenges can lead to personal growth.

• That effort is not important.

• That grades are the only thing that matters.