Mark Hillringhouse - Teachers Make a Difference - Juana Ortiz

The transcript recounts the story of Wanna Ortiz, a student with cerebral palsy, and her journey to becoming a writer with the help of a dedicated teacher. The teacher used poetry to engage Wanna, helping her overcome language barriers and personal challenges. Over five years, Wanna's writing skills improved significantly, leading to her receiving an award and publishing a book. The teacher reflects on the impact of personalized teaching and the broader influence of educators on students' lives.

What was the outcome of Wanna Ortiz's efforts in writing?

What does the teacher believe about the impact of educators on their students?

How did the teacher reflect on their teaching career after 35 years?