Bonnie Kaplan - Teachers Make a Difference - Jack Harnishfager

The speaker reflects on the influence of Jack Harnischfeger, a principal at an alternative school in Rochester, NY, during the early 70s. Initially on a path to teach college, the speaker was inspired by Jack's approach to education and the unique environment of the school, which catered to students from challenging backgrounds. A memorable incident involving a birthday gift of marijuana from students highlighted the speaker's problem-solving skills and reinforced the decision to pursue a career in high school teaching. The experience with Jack set a high standard for the speaker's 30-year teaching career.

What was the initial career path the narrator was pursuing before being influenced by Jack Harnischfeger?

• Teaching high school

• Becoming a principal

• Working in a corporate job

• Getting a PhD and teaching college

What type of program was the alternative school offering to its students?

• A work-study program

• A culinary arts program

• A sports training program

• A music education program

How did the narrator initially decide to handle the situation with the gift left in their desk?

• Make a general announcement to the students

• Report it to the police

• Confront the students directly

• Discuss it with Jack immediately

What was Jack's reaction to how the narrator handled the situation with the gift?

• He punished the students involved

• He was disappointed

• He congratulated the narrator

• He was unaware of the situation

What did the narrator realize about their career after the incident with the gift?

• They wanted to become a principal

• They wanted to leave teaching

• They wanted to be in an environment like Jack's school

• They preferred teaching college